Make code read like pseudocode

When writing C++, it is easy to get buried in syntax, boilerplate, and the quirks of the language. If you take a step back and imagine writing your code in pseudocode first, you are forced to focus on what really matters: the logic and the intent. Pseudocode does not care about semicolons, types, or namespaces. It only cares about making the idea clear to a human reader.

That mindset is useful because it highlights how your code should read. The closer your real code feels to the pseudocode, the easier it is to understand and maintain. From there, you can reach for C++ techniques that make your implementation more “pseudocode-like” in clarity.

This process is essentially about distilling a domain-specific language (DSL) out of your C++ code. You are not inventing a new language, but you are shaping your code so that it reads almost like a mini-DSL for your problem domain. The implementation details are still there under the hood, but they are isolated behind meaningful abstractions, allowing the core domain or business logic to be expressed clearly.

Some practical techniques for more readable code: Code that clearly expresses its intent reduces cognitive load and makes maintenance safer. These techniques help transform implementation details into domain-focused expressions that communicate purpose rather than mechanics.

Note: On Abstracting

Some developers resist techniques that introduce abstractions, preferring to see implementation details directly. This often stems from experience with poor abstractions - code that hides important details without providing clear benefit.

See Do not confuse abstraction with obfuscation

Key Techniques for self-descriptive code

Extract conditions into descriptive functions

if (isActive(user) && hasPermissionToExecute(user)) {
    process(request);
}

Use Type Aliases to improve readability

Long namespace-qualified names or verbose types can drown out the logic. Hide them behind clean aliases so the algorithm is what stands out.

using PlayerName = game::player::types::PlayerName;
using ScoreValue = game::score::types::ScoreValue;
using PlayerScoresByName = std::unordered_map<PlayerName, ScoreValue>;

PlayerScoresByName playerScores;

Use shorthand variables to Improve Readability

When you repeatedly access a deeply-nested or verbose object, consider introducing a shorthand variable for clarity and efficiency.

const auto& activeObjects = GameWorld::Objects::getActiveObjects();
if (activeObjects.size() > 10) {
    // ...
}
if (activeObjects.empty()) {
    // ...
}

Use auto for type inference

Overly explicit typing can distract from what is happening. With auto, the focus shifts to the logic itself.

// Without auto: explicit type for iterator in std::find
std::vector<int>::const_iterator it = std::find(vec.begin(), vec.end(), 42);

// With auto: type inference removes distraction
auto it = std::find(vec.begin(), vec.end(), 42);

• Use ranges instead of index-heavy logic.
• Use adapters to prevent accessing external API’s directly