Single Responsibility Principle (SRP)
The Single Responsibility Principle (SRP) is one of the five SOLID principles of object oriented design introduced by Robert C. Martin (also known as Uncle Bob). The SRP states:
A class should have only one reason to change.
In simpler terms, this principle dictates that a class should have only one job or responsibility. If a class has more than one responsibility, it becomes more complex, harder to understand, and more difficult to maintain. By ensuring that a class has only one responsibility, you enhance the modularity and robustness of your code.
Why SRP is Important
- Enhanced Readability and Maintainability: When classes have a single responsibility, they are easier to understand. Each class focuses on one particular task, making the codebase more organized and easier to navigate.
- Easier to Test: Classes with a single responsibility are easier to unit test. Each class has fewer dependencies and less complex behavior, making it simpler to write and maintain tests.
- Reduced Risk of Change: If a class has only one reason to change, then changes are less likely to introduce bugs or affect other parts of the system. This minimizes the impact of modifications and makes the system more stable.
- Improved Reusability: Classes that focus on a single task can be more easily reused in different parts of the application or in different projects.