Pair Programming—Enhancing Collaboration and Code Quality

Pair programming is a common coding practice that involves two programmers working together to solve complex challenges and create effective software programs. By understanding when and how to use pair programming effectively, you can improve your teamwork, enhance your code, and take your software development to the next level. 

What is pair programming?

Pair programming is a software development practice involving two developers working together to design and develop a computer program. Typically, you would work at the same computer as your programming partner, with one of you controlling the keyboard and mouse while the other gives feedback and suggestions throughout the development process. Today, many pairs program together remotely using collaboration tools, allowing different industry environments to utilize this method.

By sharing the coding process in real-time with a partner, you can improve the quality of your code, troubleshoot issues as they arise, and share ideas for how to approach different aspects of the code. 

Who is involved in pair programming?

Pair programming involves two roles. One person will be the “driver,” and the other will be the “navigator.” In traditional setups, the driver is the person who works with the computer directly, such as typing the code with the keyboard. The navigator, on the other hand, actively observes the code being written and constantly communicates with the driver.

When working together, both the driver and navigator ask and answer questions, discuss design, and find errors as they move through the coding process.

Benefits of pair programming

Pair programming encourages effective collaboration and problem-solving, in addition to improving design structure and reducing errors. By taking part in pair programming, you can help to improve your team dynamics while increasing the overall quality of your code. Consider a few common benefits. 

Improve communication between team members.

Because you continually communicate with your partner, pair programming increases collaboration throughout the development process and relies on your ability to discuss your thought process and steps. Each time you write a segment of the code, you have to describe why you chose to approach it that way and how you expect it to work with other segments. This collaboration helps you build skills in communicating ideas, planning problem-solving strategies, and fostering a sense of camaraderie. 

Transfer knowledge.

Your partner likely doesn’t have the exact same experience and coding style as you, meaning working together will involve sharing your knowledge and background. This can expand your understanding of how to approach coding challenges and build your skills as a professional.

Promote well-thought-out code structure.

Two people have to agree on the coding structure, meaning the code will often follow more consistent coding guidelines and be well-documented. This is because you tend to think out the structure as a team and implement it in a more organized way than you might if addressing the programming challenge alone. 

Identify errors early.

By watching the code being typed, the navigator can identify missed cases, typing errors, or syntax issues and help the driver avoid issues along the way. Working together also helps you discuss deeper-rooted issues in the code, such as functionality errors, and brainstorm ways to overcome these problems. 

Overcome misunderstandings more quickly.

When programmers work together, it’s less likely for one person to become stuck on a particular concept for a long period of time. You can work through concepts together and overcome misunderstandings more quickly by combining perspectives and experiences. 

Challenges of pair programming

While earlier uses of pair programming relied on using the same computer, remote work has led to challenges with implementing pair programming. To program as a pair remotely, you need to ensure screen sharing tools are up-to-date, you have adequate screen quality, and video feeds are conducive to collaborating. In addition to this, teammates need to be on the same schedule and able to log on and work on the project at the same time. This can be challenging to implement if you don’t have the right resources or availability on distributed teams. 

Who uses pair programming?

Pair programming is a type of practice commonly used by academic and industry programming teams. In academia, programmers move more quickly through misunderstandings and continue to progress through their research more effectively. In industry, pair programming benefits teams as a whole because several people understand the flow of code and the overall system, reducing productivity breaks if someone leaves the company. Originally, programmers worked independently and then had to teach other programmers their code and changes made. The process of pair programming is much more efficient, as each member has a clear idea of the changes being made and why in real time, making it a popular method across industries. 

Pair programming is also common in classroom settings. It helps students reinforce their learning by communicating their ideas with peers and working together to solve challenges. This helps encourage active learning and builds collaborative skills that can later be used in the workplace.

How to implement pair programming

When implementing pair programming, it’s important to have a clear understanding of each person’s role and how you will set up the division of labor. In general, take the following steps.

1. Define the driver role. The driver will control the physical device (e.g., enter code), speak through what they are typing, and constructively respond to the navigator.

2. Define the navigator role. The navigator will think strategically about the program, watch for errors, consider alternatives, suggest improvements and alterations, and ask questions.

3. Set up the physical space. Ensure you have the right materials, depending on whether you are working together physically or virtually. 

4. Switch roles periodically. Consider switching roles every 10 to 20 minutes so you and your partner spend equal time in each role. 

5. Seek advice if needed. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if you or your partner are stuck. It can sometimes be beneficial to seek additional input to work through more difficult blocks.

Learn more about computer programming on Coursera

Pair programming offers an effective strategy for enhancing code quality, improving collaboration, and building stronger teams. By improving your individual programming skills, you can bring more advanced expertise to your partnership, helping to share knowledge and alternate perspectives to address complex problems. Start enhancing your programming skills today with online degree programs by industry leaders on Coursera. Complete the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the University of London or Northeastern University’s Master of Science in Data Analytics.