camelCase vs snake_case: Which Naming Style Should You Use?
Both styles are valid. The right choice depends on language conventions and where the identifier is used.
Quick Rule
- Use camelCase in JavaScript/TypeScript for variables and functions.
- Use snake_case in Python for variables and functions (PEP 8).
- Use snake_case for SQL table/column names in most teams.
- Use one style per surface and keep it consistent.
Examples
| Context | Recommended | Example |
|---|---|---|
| JavaScript variable | camelCase | userProfile |
| Python variable | snake_case | user_profile |
| REST JSON field (JS clients) | camelCase | createdAt |
| SQL column | snake_case | created_at |
Team Strategy
Define conventions in your README and lint rules. Inconsistent naming causes avoidable bugs and slows onboarding.
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