What does mnemonic mean in the context of variable naming?

In the context of variable naming, a mnemonic refers to a mechanism that aids in memory retention and understanding. When we say that variable names should help describe the value being stored, we emphasize the need for clarity in code. Meaningful variable names allow developers to quickly grasp what the variable represents, enhancing readability and maintainability of the code.

When variable names are descriptive, they act like cues or hints, guiding anyone who reads the code—be it the original author revisiting their work later or another developer—about what the variable is intended for. For example, naming a variable userAge clearly indicates that it refers to the age of a user, making the code more intuitive and easier to follow.

Other options do not align with the mnemonic concept. For instance, the idea that variable names should start with lowercase letters pertains more to coding conventions rather than mnemonic function. Similarly, minimizing length or prohibiting numbers might be based on style or technical restrictions, but they do not directly relate to aiding memory or clarity.