Overview
A 'linter' is a type of static analysis tool. It checks your code against a set of rules to ensure consistency and catch common mistakes. Linting is often integrated into the developer's IDE and the CI/CD pipeline.
Benefits
- Enforces a consistent coding style across the team.
- Catches simple errors (like missing semicolons or unused variables) instantly.
- Reduces the 'noise' in code reviews by automating style checks.
Examples
- ESLint: The standard linter for the JavaScript ecosystem.
- Prettier: An opinionated code formatter often used alongside a linter.