In programming, a variable is a symbolic name for a storage location that holds data which can be modified during the execution of a program. Variables are fundamental concepts in any programming language and are used to store values that can be manipulated. For example, in a Python program, a variable can hold a number, a string, or other data types, which can later be updated or used in calculations. The name of the variable acts as a reference to the stored data, making it easier for developers to manage and access that data throughout the program.

Definition: A variable is a storage location identified by a name that holds a value which can be modified during program execution. Variables are used to store data such as numbers, strings, or objects.

age = 25
name = "Alice"

Variables are typically declared at the start of a program or function, and their type is either inferred by the language (like in dynamically typed languages such as Python) or explicitly defined (as in statically typed languages like Java or C++). A variable’s value can change over time as the program runs, which is why it’s called a “variable.” The ability to store and update data in variables makes them essential for creating dynamic, interactive programs that can respond to user input, process data, and execute specific tasks based on various conditions.

Good naming conventions are crucial for variables, as they make the code more readable and easier to understand. For instance, using descriptive names such as totalAmount instead of just a or x helps other developers (or your future self) understand the role of the variable. By understanding how variables work, programmers can design software that is both efficient and easy to maintain.