Dynamic Typing

1. Overview

Definition: Dynamic typing refers to a programming language feature where variable types are determined at runtime rather than at compile-time.
Languages: Common languages that support dynamic typing include Python, JavaScript, Ruby, and PHP.
Type Flexibility: In dynamically typed languages, the same variable can refer to different data types at different points in the execution of a program.
Error Handling: Type-related errors may only surface during execution, potentially leading to runtime exceptions that are not caught during compilation.
Development Speed: Dynamic typing can lead to faster development cycles since programmers don't need to explicitly declare variable types.
Advantages:
- Easier to write and modify code in a flexible manner.
- Encourages rapid prototyping.
Disadvantages:
- Increased risk of runtime errors.
- Potentially more difficult debugging and maintenance due to type ambiguity.

Static vs. Dynamic Typing: Unlike static typing, where type checking is done at compile time (e.g., languages like Java and C++), dynamic typing prioritizes flexibility over type safety at runtime.
Impact on Performance: Dynamic typing can introduce overhead because the type of each variable needs to be checked during execution, which might affect performance compared to statically typed languages.
Developer Efficiency: While dynamic typing can speed up initial development, it can also lead to longer-term maintenance challenges, necessitating careful testing strategies.