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How to Comment and Document Code in JavaScript?

Commenting is essential in JavaScript for better readability, debugging, and documentation. JavaScript supports single-line, multi-line, and JSDoc comments.


1️⃣ Single-Line Comments

Use // for short explanations or to disable code on a single line. Ctrl + /

// This is a single-line comment
let x = 10; // Variable storing a number

Best for: Quick notes and debugging.


2️⃣ Multi-Line Comments

Use /* ... */ for multi-line explanations. Shift + Alt + A

/*
This function calculates the sum of two numbers
and returns the result.
*/
function add(a, b) {
return a + b;
}

Best for: Describing functions, logic, or sections of code.


3️⃣ Inline Documentation / JSDoc Comments

JSDoc is used for documenting functions, parameters, and return types. Shift + Alt + A

/**
* Adds two numbers and returns the sum.
* @param {number} a - First number
* @param {number} b - Second number
* @returns {number} Sum of a and b
*/
function add(a, b) {
return a + b;
}

Best for: Professional documentation, IDE tooltips, and API references.


tip

💡 Best Practices for Commenting

Write meaningful comments, not obvious ones.
Use JSDoc for functions, classes, and APIs.
Avoid over-commenting; code should be self-explanatory.