File Organization and Structure

Apply these principles to create well-organized source files.

Routine Separation Within Files

When to apply: When a file contains multiple routines

1. Use at least two blank lines to separate each routine from others
2. Visual distinction:
   • Use two to three blank lines to create visual difference from internal routine spacing
   • Blank lines are as effective as asterisk or dash lines, and easier to input and maintain

Routine Ordering Strategy

When to apply: When organizing routines within a file and no stronger principle applies

1. Alternative approach: Arrange related routines alphabetically
2. Applicable scenarios:
   • Programs cannot be decomposed into classes
   • Editor doesn't allow easy function lookup
3. Advantage: Saves search time

C++ Source File Content Order

When to apply: When organizing C++ source files

Follow this typical order for C++ source file contents:

1. File description comment
2. #include files
3. Constant definitions applicable to multiple classes (if file contains multiple classes)
4. Enums applicable to multiple classes (if file contains multiple classes)
5. Macro function definitions
6. Type definitions applicable to multiple classes (if file contains multiple classes)
7. Imported global variables and functions
8. Exported global variables and functions
9. File-private variables and functions
10. Classes, including constant definitions, enums, and type definitions within each class

Result

• Routine boundaries are clearly visible
• File structure follows consistent conventions
• Code is easier to navigate and maintain