Definition of Syntax Errors
Syntax errors are mistakes in the way the code is created. Programming languages require each variable and code block to be typed in a specific format. Just like human languages, if the program is not expressed with all the commas, spaces and punctuation in place, the language can't be read. Several types of syntax errors occur in programming languages, and they all display a programming error when the developer tries to compile the code.
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Improper Statement Termination
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Some languages like Java, C# and PHP require termination at the end of the statement. This tells the compiler that the statement has ended and the next line is a new statement to process. It's easy to forget to end statements with a semicolon when it isn't habit. However, if the semicolon is left off of the statement, the compiler attempts to combine the two lines of code and an error occurs.
Brackets
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Brackets are used in languages like Javascript, C# and C++. These languages surround blocks of code like functions, classes and loops with brackets. When brackets are forgotten, a syntax error occurs. The most common mistake some developers make is forgetting the end bracket. This makes coding difficult with several lines of code.
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Assigning the Wrong Type of Variable
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When variables are defined, it is specific to the type of data assigned to it. For instance, a string variable cannot have an integer assigned to it. This causes a syntax error. Syntax errors also occur if the programmer attempts to convert a variable that is blank or cannot be converted. For instance, the character "A" cannot be converted to an integer. This raises a syntax error with the compiler.
Using Keywords
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Keywords are used when defining variables, creating logic structures or creating loops in the code. Keywords like "int," "string" or "for" are specific to the compiler. If the programmer attempts to create a variable with one of these keywords, a syntax error is displayed. Always create variables that are not listed as a compiler's keywords.
Improper Use of Comments
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Comments are sections of code that explain the lines of code for other programmers to read and understand the logic. If comments are not surrounded with the proper comment character, a syntax error occurs. Each compiler has specific requirements for comment sections. Ensure that the comment blocks have these required characters surrounding them, or the compiler will attempt to use them with the code, sending a syntax error.
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