What is Source Code? What is it used for?

We’ve explored the question “What is Source Code?” for you. After reading this content, you’ll have no more doubts!

What is Source Code?

Source code is the set of instructions written by a programmer using a high-level or mid-level programming language. The programmer can combine this code with other software code to create an application, a website, or another computer program. One of the everyday uses of source code is how you reach a resource or product by clicking on a link.

Source code is considered a fundamental component of computers and is relatively easy to read and modify. Developers add comments to programs to make them easier to understand. Computers cannot directly interpret source code; it must be translated into machine code by a compiler. Machine code, however, is not readable by humans.

You can write source code in various environments such as text editors, visual programming tools, and integrated development environments (IDEs). Some of the most popular programming languages for writing source code include:

• C
• C++
• Java
• Python
• JavaScript
• Pascal

What is Source Code Used For?

Source code plays a vital role in every software-related field by forming the foundation for software creation. It enables updating, editing, and improving existing software. It also allows many people to collaborate on the same project and deliver results quickly.

Here are some examples of its usage:

• Creating websites: All kinds of websites, from personal blogs to large-scale e-commerce sites, exist thanks to source code. Common languages used include HTML and CSS for the front-end, and PHP or Java for the back-end.
• Adding specific functions to programs: All programs consist of a set of functions working together. Source code can be used to create APIs (Application Programming Interfaces), which allow different software systems to communicate. For example, a weather app may use an API.
• Interacting with algorithms: Algorithms are sets of instructions that tell computer programs what tasks to perform or problems to solve. Source code acts as a bridge between humans and computers for these processes, making it useful in problem-solving and academic research.

Who Uses Source Code?

Source code isn’t limited to a single field. Many roles in the tech sector regularly work with source code examples, including:

• Programmers and Software Developers: To create, update, and maintain mobile apps and software platforms.
• Database Administrators: To update, query, and manage data.
• System Administrators: To manage computer systems, networks, and perform maintenance.
• Data Scientists: Often use Python for data analysis and machine learning tasks.
• Security Experts: Cybersecurity professionals and ethical hackers analyze source code to identify vulnerabilities and contribute to creating safer software.
• Web Designers and Developers: Designers focus on user experience, while developers bring designs to life through code.
• Business Analysts and Product Managers: Though they don’t write code regularly, reviewing source code helps bridge communication between technical teams and stakeholders, supporting project understanding and realistic planning.

How Can You Access Source Code?

There are several ways to view the source code of a website. However, it’s usually not possible to view source code on mobile browsers, and if programmers don’t allow access, full source code cannot be accessed for security reasons.

Here are three methods to view source code in Chrome, Opera, and Firefox browsers:

• Use the shortcut Ctrl+U to open the source code.
• Add “view-source:” before the URL in the address bar. For example, to view the source code of https://www.techcareer.net/, type view-source:https://www.techcareer.net.
• Right-click on any part of the webpage and select “View Page Source” (Chrome) or “View Page Source” (Firefox).
• For macOS users, two options are available:
• Open Safari, navigate to the site, then from the top menu bar choose Develop > Show Page Source.
• Use the keyboard shortcut Option + Command + U to view the source code.

Examples of Source Code

Source code examples can be very simple or quite complex for someone unfamiliar with the language. Simply put, any software code you’ve seen before is an example.

Here’s a classic example: the “Hello World!” program written in C:

/* Hello World code */ #include<stdio.h>
main()
{
   printf("Merhaba Dünya!");
}

When executed, this code prints “Hello World!” on the screen. Even a beginner can guess what this program does.

Here’s another example in Python, which asks for a user’s name and then prints a greeting:

# Simple Python program to greet user

def greet(name):
   "Return a greeting message."
   return f"Merhaba, {name}! Programlama dünyasına hoş geldin."

def main():
   user_name = input("Lütfen isminizi giriniz: ")  # Get user's name
   message = greet(user_name)  # Get greeting message
   print(message)  # Display greeting

if __name__ == "__main__":
   main()  # Run main function 

Although this program looks more complex than the first, it simply asks for a name and then outputs a greeting. If the name entered is Zeynep, the output will be:

“Merhaba, Zeynep! Programlama dünyasına hoş geldin.”

Now you’re familiar with one more software term! If you want to develop your skills in other areas of software, you can join the free and certified Bootcamp events offered by Techcareer. Also, check the Job Listings section for technology-related positions suitable for you. Don’t forget to explore the Hackathon section, where you can test yourself and gain valuable experience and even win prizes!