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'''Softcoding''' is a [[computer programming|computer coding]] term that refers to obtaining a value or function from some external resource, such as a [[preprocessor macro]], external constant, configuration file, command line argument or database table. It is the opposite of [[hardcoding]], which refers to coding values and functions in the source code.
Avoiding hard-coding of commonly altered values is a good programming practice. Users of the software should be able to customize it to their needs, within reason, without having to edit the program's source code. Similarly, careful programmers avoid [[Magic number (programming)#Unnamed numerical constants|Magic Numbers]] in their code, to improve its readability, and assist maintenance. These
The term is generally used where Softcoding becomes an [[anti-pattern]]. Abstracting too many values and features can introduce more complexity and maintenance issues than would be experienced with changing the code when required. Softcoding, in this sense, was featured in an article on [[The Daily WTF]].<ref>[http://worsethanfailure.com/Articles/Soft_Coding.aspx Softcoding] from [[The Daily WTF]]</ref>.
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