Magic Number (programming)
In computer programming, the term magic number has multiple meanings. It could refer to one or more of the following:
- A constant numerical or text value used to identify a file format or protocol; for files, see List of file signatures
- Distinctive unique values that are unlikely to be mistaken for other meanings (e.g., Globally Unique Identifiers)
- Unique values with unexplained meaning or multiple occurrences which could (preferably) be replaced with named constants
Read more about Magic Number (programming): Unnamed Numerical Constants, Magic GUIDs, Magic Debug Values
Famous quotes containing the words magic and/or number:
“The Prospero of poisons, the Faustus of the front,
bringing mental magic to modern armament.”
—Tony Harrison (b. 1953)
“He is the richest man who knows how to draw a benefit from the labors of the greatest number of men, of men in distant countries, and in past times.”
—Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803–1882)