Technology Fundamentals
Variable
Definition
A variable is a symbolic name or identifier associated with a value that is stored in memory. The value of a variable can be changed during the execution of a program.
Why It Matters
Variables are the most basic building block of any program. They are used to store information that will be referenced and manipulated by the code.
Contextual Example
In the code `x = 10`, `x` is the variable, and `10` is the value assigned to it. Later, you could change its value with `x = 20`.
Common Misunderstandings
- A variable is different from a constant, whose value cannot be changed once it is assigned.
- The rules for naming variables differ between programming languages.