If you’ve ever been part of a code review, you know the experience can be either great or incredibly frustrating. In an ideal scenario, it’s a process that improves code quality, accelerates team learning, and ensures the software evolves sustainably. But when handled poorly, it can turn into a cycle of irrelevant feedback, unnecessary discussions, and development delays.
The problem is that many people focus on the wrong details. They spend too much time debating spacing and style (things a linter can handle) while ignoring fundamental aspects like design, logic, and testing. The goal of a code review is not to fix minor mistakes but to ensure that the code delivers value and remains sustainable in the long run.
So, what really matters in a code review process? Let’s get straight to the point.
1. Design and Architecture: Does the Code Fit Well in the System?
Before going line by line, it’s essential to understand the structural impact of the change. The way code is written directly influences its scalability, maintainability, and integration with the rest of the system.
What to evaluate:
Does the code introduce unnecessary dependencies?
Does it follow the team’s architectural standards?
Is it simple and straightforward, or is there unnecessary complexity?
Is the solution sustainable in the long run?
If new code violates SOLID principles or adds unnecessary layers of abstraction, it needs to be discussed. Poor design can introduce hidden costs that will affect the entire team in the future.
2. Functionality and Logic: Does the Code Actually Solve the Problem?
Great, the design is aligned. But does the code do what it’s supposed to do? A clean implementation is useless if it doesn’t meet the requirements correctly.
What to evaluate:
Is the functionality implemented according to the specification?
Does the code consider edge cases and unexpected inputs?
Does it avoid unwanted side effects?
Is the performance adequate for the use case?
If the code handles user input, for example, is it protected against SQL Injection or XSS? Small details can lead to big problems if not evaluated correctly.
3. Tests and Coverage: How Can We Ensure Nothing Breaks?
Tests are an essential part of development, and a code review should ensure that new code does not introduce unnecessary risks.
What to evaluate:
Are there tests covering the new functionality?
Is test coverage sufficient to prevent regressions?
Are the tests clear and well-written?
Are they fast enough not to slow down the CI/CD pipeline?
If a PR modifies a critical part of the application, it needs to be accompanied by proper tests. Otherwise, the risk of regression increases.
4. Clarity and Maintainability: Is the Code Easy to Understand?
Good code isn’t just code that works—it’s code that other people can easily understand and modify.
What to evaluate:
Are names clear and consistent?
Is the code organized logically?
Do comments explain the “why” rather than just the “what”?
Can the intent of the code be understood without external explanations?
If someone revisits this code six months from now, will they be able to grasp it quickly? Code reviews are also about making life easier for your future self and your colleagues.
Tips for a More Efficient Code Review Process
Beyond technical criteria, a few best practices can make a big difference in keeping the review process efficient and productive.
🔹 Automate What Can Be Automated
Let AI handle trivial issues. The reviewer’s time should be spent on strategic concerns, not debating indentation or code style.
🔹 Keep a Constructive Tone
A code review is not a battleground. The goal is to improve the code and strengthen the team. Feedback should be direct but always constructive. If an issue is identified, suggest a solution rather than just pointing out the mistake.
🔹 Avoid Huge Pull Requests
If a PR is so large that no one wants to review it, something is wrong. Smaller changes make the process easier and prevent issues from going unnoticed.
🔹 Have a Standardized Process
Checklists and code review guidelines help maintain consistency across the team. The clearer the process, the less time is wasted on unnecessary discussions.
Code Reviews Are About Evolution, Not Perfection
The goal of a code review is not to ensure the code is perfect. Perfection doesn’t exist. What we aim for is code that adds value, remains sustainable, and can evolve without causing headaches in the future.
If you prioritize design, functionality, testing, and clarity, you’ll ensure that every review has a meaningful impact on your team and product.
