What is the purpose of comments in programming?

The purpose of comments in programming is to annotate code for clarity. This means that comments are used to provide explanations, context, or additional information about what specific sections of code are doing. They help other programmers understand the thought process behind the code as well as the functionality, which is especially valuable in collaborative environments or when revisiting code after a period of time.

Comments can explain complex logic, outline the purpose of a function, or note any important considerations that a future developer should keep in mind. They are not executed by the compiler or interpreter, allowing developers to include helpful notes without affecting the program's performance or behavior.

This practice enhances code readability, making it easier for others (or even the original author at a later date) to understand the intention behind the code, which ultimately contributes to better maintenance and fewer errors in the long run.