Kotlin Code Smell 2 - Functions Are Too Long

Kotlin Code Smell 2 - Functions Are Too Long

Humans get bored beyond line 10...

TL;DR: Refactor and extract functions longer than 5-10 lines of code.

Problems

  • Low cohesion

  • High coupling

  • Difficult to read

  • Low reuse

Solutions

  • Refactor.

  • Create small objects to handle specific tasks and unit test them.

  • Compose methods.

Examples

  • Libraries

Sample Code

Wrong

class ChessBoard() {
    init {
        placeOnBoard(whiteTower)
        placeOnBoard(whiteKnight)
        // All other white pieces

        // Empty space to pause definition
        placeOnBoard(blackTower)
        placeOnBoard(blackKnight)
        // All other black pieces
    }

    fun placeOnBoard(piece: Piece) = TODO()
}

Right

class ChessBoard() {
    init {
        placeWhitePieces()
        placeBlackPieces()
    }

    private fun placeWhitePieces() = TODO()
    private fun placeBlackPieces() = TODO()
}

Conclusion

Extract long methods into smaller pieces. Break down complex algorithms into parts. This approach allows for easier unit testing and improves readability while ensuring the correct level of abstraction in your method.

More info

Credits