copeg

The term SSCCE gets thrown around a lot in online programming forums. Its a simple acronym that stands for Short, Self Contained, Correct Example. But what is so important about an SSCCE? For starters, creating an SSCCE provides a very simple example that clearly demonstrates a given problem, helping one receive help and advice much quicker. But it also goes far beyond just that. Often just the process alone of writing an SSCCE will unveil the problem at hand. But even more important, the process of writing an SSCCE is the process of programming - breaking code down, isolating problems, and testing and debugging portions of code. These concepts are some of the most essential aspects of programming, without which one has little to work with in writing algorithms and software. In my view, an SSCCE is beyond just a tool to help get help faster - its a tool to help the programmer learn to program.

Links:
Short, Self Contained, Correct Example
Technical Forums: What Not To Do