Handling Criticism (Constructive) For Your Code Review

Have you ever written code with zeal and then received a negative code review? Let's take a step back and look at why criticism over a review is important for both product and personal development.

Code review in software engineering is like a checklist of a product for maintaining its quality standards.

You must understand a few points when you receive an unfavorable review,

• You don’t own the Code!
• Concentrate on the solution rather than the criticism.
• Source code review in software testing aids in understanding the standard, reducing more disagreements.
• Peer code review also helps with being aware of others' coding practices.

Many developers seek input from senior developers or managers to move their projects forward, with this a question arises,

How well do programmers handle criticism for their code?

Programmers, particularly junior developers, often believe that the comments provided for their coding review were inappropriate. This is because junior developers are new to the team, and (standard) coding guidelines sometimes team leads or senior developers may be pickier with their source code review checklist.

However, when it comes to experienced software developers, they grow to habituate to the type of feedback they receive and are more likely to challenge the reviewer as well as handle criticism during their review.

How to handle criticism from a code review?

It's critical to remember that constructive criticism over code review can only assist you in refining the code.

First and foremost, never attach your emotions with your code since it is likely to be challenged! Yes, it's a product that will go through many checkpoints; even if you believe your review is being undertaken by someone with lesser programming skills.

You've most likely experienced it yourself; when you get a request for a change in the code for something you're neutral about (or even agree with), it's easier to keep your emotions in check and accept the input. This type of comment is pleasant, polite, and cooperative.

On the other hand, if you receive a request to alter code that you are confident is accurate, your first emotion might be rage. The review comments may make you feel uncomfortable. You might consider arguments to advocate for your position in this change request.

Rather than arguing with the reviewer, concentrate on finding a solution and learning to improve your skill set. However, negative remarks might occasionally outweigh the willingness to collaborate.

How to respond to bad code review comments in a good way!

• Request clarification on the negative comment as a genuine question.
• Assure the Reviewer that you have abided by the guidelines provided.
• Create the response tactfully to ensure that the issue does not deteriorate.
• Talk about this review feedback with your peers to learn from their experiences.

If you believe comments on your code are unjustified, make sure to respond with suitable arguments while preserving a good professional relationship with your superiors or co-workers in the case of peer code review.

There you go!

I hope that this small contribution assists you in dealing with workplace criticism through compassion, and listening. It should help you maintain work relationships, set standards, and focus on the issue at hand.