What are Routines in Programming?

Routines are a set of instructions that a computer follows to perform a specific task. They are essentially a series of commands that are executed in a particular order to accomplish a specific goal.

In programming, routines are often used to perform repetitive tasks or to simplify complex processes. For example, a routine might be used to format data, validate user input, or perform calculations.

Routines can be either built-in to the programming language or created by the programmer. Built-in routines are provided by the language and can be called by the programmer to perform specific tasks, such as input/output operations or mathematical functions. User-defined routines, on the other hand, are created by the programmer to perform a specific task or set of tasks.

Some common examples of routines include:

1. Functions: A function is a routine that performs a specific task and returns a value. Functions can be called by the programmer to perform a variety of tasks, such as formatting data or performing calculations.
2. Subroutines: A subroutine is a routine that is called by another routine. Subroutines are often used to perform repetitive tasks or to simplify complex processes.
3. Procedures: A procedure is a routine that performs a specific task and does not return a value. Procedures are often used to perform complex tasks or to manage resources.
4. Macros: A macro is a set of instructions that are defined by the programmer and can be called by name to perform a specific task. Macros are often used to automate repetitive tasks or to simplify complex processes.

Overall, routines are an important part of programming and are used to organize code, simplify complex processes, and improve the efficiency of programs.