Compile Time Error

An error that shows up in the "Compile" stage in the "Edit, Compile, [Link,] Run cycle".

The TheoryOfLanguageEnvironmentSuckage states that it's better to have a mistake shown to you as soon as possible, hence making CompileTimeErrors better than RunTimeErrors.

However, Though UnitTests technically happen at Run-time, they always happen in conjunction with compilation. This means they have the same quick feedback of CompileTimeErrors. Think of UnitTests as CompileTimeErrors that the programmer can define.

That is an excellent point - and possibly the key to convincing people of the value of unit tests (and the antidote to certain criticisms of dynamic typing) -- JimArnold

CategoryTime