What does documentation in software development typically include?

Documentation in software development encompasses a variety of materials that aid in understanding and maintaining code. This comprehensive approach includes comments within the code, which serve as immediate, contextual explanations of what specific sections of the code do. These comments are invaluable for other developers who may read or modify the code in the future, ensuring clarity and intent.

In addition to in-code comments, separate documents that describe the overall program are also critical. These documents can include architectural overviews, design documents, API documentation, and user manuals, all of which contribute to a complete understanding of the software being developed. Such documentation not only serves current team members but also provides valuable resources for new developers joining the project, ensuring continuity and support.

Therefore, including both comments in the code and separate descriptive documents creates a robust documentation strategy that enhances maintainability, collaboration, and usability.