Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Syntax refers to the set of rules specific to a programming language that dictate how programs should be written. It includes guidelines for using keywords, punctuation, and structures correctly.
Related terms
Keyword: A reserved word in a programming language that has special meaning and is used for specific purposes.
Punctuation: Characters such as commas, semicolons, parentheses, etc., used to structure code and separate different elements.
Structure: The organization and arrangement of code blocks, statements, functions, and data within a program.