December 14, 2023

Static Code Analysis in Elixir vs. Ruby with René Föhring & Marc-André Lafortune

46 minutes

In this episode of Elixir Wizards, hosts Owen and Dan are joined by René Föhring, creator of Credo for Elixir, and Marc-André LaFortune, head maintainer of the RuboCop AST library for Ruby. They compare static code analysis in Ruby versus Elixir.

The conversation explores the intricacies and challenges inherent in static code analysis across object-oriented and functional programming paradigms, highlighting the unique characteristics of both Ruby and Elixir. Key topics of discussion include the ways these tools can enhance coding styles and empower developers, the delicate balance between providing guidance and enforcing rules, and the evolving future of code analysis in these languages.

Topics discussed in this episode:

The differences and applications between static and dynamic analysis

How Credo aims to offer flexible and educational guidance for Elixir developers

The complexities of method identification in Ruby and its impact on static analysis

Challenges posed by macros and dynamic code modification during compilation in Elixir

Reducing false positives in code analysis tools to minimize developer frustration

Promoting uniform coding practices through analysis tools

The significance of using analysis tools with clear, specific objectives

How coding standards can refine and improve coding styles over time

Building analysis tools and checks through an understanding of Abstract Syntax Trees (ASTs)

Potential advancements in the analysis of Phoenix templates and HTML in Elixir

Contrasting approaches to managing code and comments in Elixir and Ruby ASTs

The fine line between providing helpful guidance and imposing stylistic preferences

Heuristics in static analysis highlight inconsistencies without mandating style

The potential for more straightforward pattern matching in ASTs with future updates

The importance of a gradual implementation of tool updates to maintain backward compatibility

Creating tools that support and empower developers, rather than hinder them

How static analysis contributes to cleaner, more maintainable codebases

Potential future developments in the field of static code analysis

Practical applications of using linters like Credo and RuboCop in software development

Links mentioned in this episode:

Credo https://github.com/rrrene/credo

https://hexdocs.pm/credo/overview.html

Dogma: A code style linter for Elixir https://github.com/lpil/dogma

https://github.com/rubocop/rubocop

RuboCop's AST extensions and NodePattern functionality https://github.com/rubocop/rubocop-ast

https://github.com/whitequark/parser

https://hex.pm/packages?search=credo&sort=recent_downloads

https://github.com/doorgan/sourceror

https://github.com/rrrene/credo/blob/master/lib/credo/check/readability/large_numbers.ex

Special Guests: Marc-André Lafortune and René Föhring.

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By SmartLogic LLC

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