A variable is a named storage location used to hold a value that may change during program execution. Variables allow developers to store numbers, strings, objects, or more complex data structures. They are fundamental to controlling program state and logic flow. Variables make code dynamic, flexible, and reusable. Every programming language includes rules for declaring and assigning variables.
key characteristics
Variables have names, types, and scopes that determine where they can be accessed. Some languages enforce strict typing, while others allow dynamic types. Variables live in memory and are managed by the runtime or garbage collector. They participate heavily in functions, loops, and conditional logic. Clear variable naming improves readability and maintainability of code. Using variables effectively is foundational to all software development.