Variables

A variable is a named place to store a value so you can use it again later.

Real-world analogy: a variable is like a labeled box. You write a label on it ("age"), put something inside (25), and later you can look inside the box just by reading its label — or put something different inside.

Most languages share the same shape for creating one:

age = 25
name = "Ada"

Once a value is stored in a variable, you can use the variable's name anywhere you'd use the value itself, and update it later as the program runs.

Common mistakes

• Using a variable before giving it a value.
• Confusing a variable's name with its value — the name ("age") is just a label; the value (25) is what's stored.