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How does pair programming work?
Pair programming is an agile software development technique in which two programmers work together at one workstation. One, the driver, writes code while the other, the observer or navigator, reviews each line of code as it is typed in. The two programmers switch roles frequently.
Why does pair programming work?
Pair programming is an important technique for developing higher quality code, faster while also reducing risk and spreading knowledge in an organization. With pair programming, two software developers work on one computer, collaborating on the same design, algorithm, code, or test.
How do you use pair programming effectively?
Below I take a look at 6 steps to keep in mind for more pleasant and effective pair programming sessions.
- Prepare. To prepare for the session, take the following steps:
- Work closely together.
- Learn and facilitate learning.
- Establish a rhythm.
- Communicate effectively.
- Embrace challenges.
Why pair programming is bad?
Pair Programming gives that feeling of someone looking over your shoulder while you work. It can reignite the Imposter Syndrome which so many Software Developers experience when they feel like they should be able to do something which they can’t.
What companies use pair programming?
The List
| Company name | Location | How much pairing? |
|---|---|---|
| Meetup | New York, Berlin | Some of the time |
| Pivotal (Labs) | San Francisco, Denver, Chicago, D.C., Seattle, Santa Monica, London, NY, Atlanta, Dallas, Austin | All the time |
| Position Development | Brooklyn, NY | Most of the time |
| RaiseMe | San Francisco, CA | Some of the time |
When pair programming should not be done?
Don’t pair program so that you can catch up on your messages while the other person drives. This is the absolute worst reason to pair program. It costs the company 4 times as much to produce the exact same code (Because they’re paying 2 salaries for 1 task and getting nothing done on another task).
What are the 6 reasons for pair programming?
Let’s take a look!
- Greater efficiency. It is a common misconception that pair programming takes a lot longer and is less efficient.
- Engaged collaboration.
- Learning from fellow students.
- Social skills.
- Job interview readiness.
- Work environment readiness.
What are the key principles of pair programming?
Pair programming is far more than two developers sitting together and writing code….Reducing Tension
- Fetch a task from your to-do list.
- Set an uninterruptible time for 25 minutes and start working.
- When the time is up, take a 5-minute break.
- Repeat steps 2 and 3, and take a break for 15 minutes after 4 rounds.
Is pair programming a waste of time?
In an online survey of pair programmers, 96% of them stated that they enjoyed their work more than when they programmed alone. Additionally, 95% of the surveyed programmers stated that they were more confident in their solutions when they pair programmed. Pairs spend about 15% more time on programs than individuals.
Is pair programming common?
I would not call it common but it occasionally happens. Its rare for routine coding but sometimes a particularly tricky bit will see two people working on it together. The other occassional use of pair programming is when a junior programmer is being taught something by a senior programmer.