In today’s tech landscape, the ability to understand and work with code that isn’t your own is more crucial than ever. 🌐 Why, you ask? Well, let me break it down: Large Language Models (LLMs), the super-smart AI systems, now make generating code a breeze. As a Technology Consultant working with various companies, I’ve noticed many folks turning to tools like GitHub Copilot or ChatGPT to simplify coding. It’s convenient and cost-effective, but there’s a twist.
🕵️♂️ The Mystery of Unfamiliar Code
Dealing with code you didn’t write can be like solving a puzzle. If you don’t understand it, you’re in a tricky spot. Bugs might pop up, or the code could act oddly. Plus, there’s a cybersecurity angle. Hackers could train LLMs to create code with hidden security issues. If that happens, it’s a problem not just for you but also for your company.
🔨 The Rise of Test-Driven Development (TDD)
In this new era, Test-Driven Development (TDD) becomes a superhero! It’s a way to ensure that the code works correctly. While we can ask LLMs for tests, relying solely on them is risky business. If the LLM makes a coding mistake, the tests it generates will be flawed, leading to low-quality work.
🔄 The Code-TDD Partnership
When LLMs give us code, we can use TDD to double-check its quality. Instead of crossing your fingers and hoping for the best, we kick things off by writing or tweaking tests. This guarantees top-notch code without sneaky errors.
💬 Your Thoughts, Please! What are your thoughts on the age of LLMs?