Stop More Bugs with our Code Review Checklist

General

  • Does the code work? Does it perform its intended function, the logic is correct etc.
  • Is all the code easily understood?
  • Does it conform to your agreed coding conventions? These will usually cover location of braces, variable and function names, line length, indentations, formatting, and comments.
  • Is there any redundant or duplicate code?
  • Is the code as modular as possible?
  • Can any global variables be replaced?
  • Is there any commented out code?
  • Do loops have a set length and correct termination conditions?
  • Can any of the code be replaced with library functions?
  • Can any logging or debugging code be removed?

Security

  • Are all data inputs checked (for the correct type, length, format, and range) and encoded?
  • Where third-party utilities are used, are returning errors being caught?
  • Are output values checked and encoded?
  • Are invalid parameter values handled?

Documentation

  • Do comments exist and describe the intent of the code?
  • Are all functions commented?
  • Is any unusual behavior or edge-case handling described?
  • Is the use and function of third-party libraries documented?
  • Are data structures and units of measurement explained?
  • Is there any incomplete code? If so, should it be removed or flagged with a suitable marker like ‘TODO’?

Testing

  • Is the code testable? i.e. don’t add too many or hide dependencies, unable to initialize objects, test frameworks can use methods etc.
  • Do tests exist and are they comprehensive? i.e. has at least your agreed on code coverage.
  • Do unit tests actually test that the code is performing the intended functionality?
  • Are arrays checked for ‘out-of-bound’ errors?
  • Could any test code be replaced with the use of an existing API?

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