How to write accurate documentation for your code?

1. Define the purpose of the code.
2. List prerequisites and dependencies.
3. Provide installation or setup steps.
4. Write clear instructions on how to use the code.
5. Document each function and class with inputs, outputs, and errors.
6. Include examples or sample code snippets.
7. Explain the workflow or logic flow of the code.
8. Add troubleshooting steps for common issues.
9. Link to related resources or references.
10. Review the documentation for accuracy and clarity.

Example

/**
 * This class represents a generic Animal.
 */
class Animal {
    protected String name;

    /**
     * Constructor to initialize the animal's name.
     * @param name Name of the animal.
     */
    public Animal(String name) {
        this.name = name;
    }

    /**
     * Method to make the animal speak (generic behavior).
     */
    public void makeSound() {
        System.out.println(name + " makes a sound.");
    }
}

/**
 * This class represents a Dog, which is a subclass of Animal.
 */
class Dog extends Animal {

    /**
     * Constructor to initialize the dog's name.
     * @param name Name of the dog.
     */
    public Dog(String name) {
        super(name);
    }

    /**
     * Overriding the makeSound method to provide a dog-specific sound.
     */
    @Override
    public void makeSound() {
        System.out.println(name + " barks.");
    }

    /**
     * Method to make the dog fetch an item.
     */
    public void fetch() {
        System.out.println(name + " is fetching the ball!");
    }
}

/**
 * Main class to demonstrate inheritance in Java.
 */
public class InheritanceExample {
    public static void main(String[] args) {
        // Creating an Animal object
        Animal genericAnimal = new Animal("Generic Animal");
        genericAnimal.makeSound();  // Output: Generic Animal makes a sound.

        // Creating a Dog object
        Dog myDog = new Dog("Buddy");
        myDog.makeSound();  // Output: Buddy barks.
        myDog.fetch();      // Output: Buddy is fetching the ball!
    }
}
    

Note: The text inside /* */ and after // is the documentation.