Pair programming is a software development technique in which two programmers work together on one computer. One person, known as the driver, writes the code while the other person, known as the observer or navigator, reviews each line of code as it is typed in. The two programmers switch roles regularly, so both stay engaged. Pair programming is a collaborative effort that involves a lot of communication, and the idea is to have the driver and navigator communicate, discuss approaches, and solve issues that might be difficult for a single developer to detect. The navigator checks the code being written, code quality, and provides direction, while the driver focuses on the specifics of coding.

Pair programming requires two developers, one workstation, one keyboard, and a mouse. The pairings can be assigned or self-assigned, and pair programming uses the four eyes principle, which ensures two sets of eyes review the code that is being produced, even when there is a division of labor.

Pair programming is an Agile software development technique that is not well suited for everyone, as it requires both programmers to have the soft skills required for collaboration, as well as the requisite hard skills to write and test code. Some businesses may adopt the practice, while others may opt not to use it.

Pair programming is a great educational tool for beginners, and it is a good way to improve problem-solving skills. It requires communication to work, and it improves the code that’s produced, making it less likely to contain errors since it’s reviewed by both pairs as it’s written. Many organizations use pair programming for improved efficiency.