What is the primary purpose of using comments in programming?

Using comments in programming is essential for explaining and clarifying the code, which significantly contributes to better understanding and maintainability. Comments are non-executable lines within the code that provide context or notes about what the code does, which can be invaluable for anyone reading the code later, including the original author, other developers, or future maintainers. They help to articulate complex logic, outline the purpose of various sections of the code, and provide insights into why certain decisions were made.

Including comments is especially beneficial in collaborative environments or large projects where multiple developers may work on the same codebase. Clear and informative comments facilitate communication among team members, enable faster onboarding for new developers, and reduce misunderstandings about how specific parts of the code function. Thus, the primary purpose of comments is not merely to beautify the code or affect its execution speed, but rather to provide clarity and enhance the overall quality of the software development process.