What is a "syntax highlighter" used for?

A syntax highlighter is a tool primarily used to display source code in different colors and fonts according to the syntax rules of a programming language. This visual differentiation helps programmers and developers to read and understand the code more easily, as it highlights elements such as keywords, variables, strings, and comments in distinct styles. The use of color and font variations makes it simpler to identify semantic structures, reducing the likelihood of errors and enhancing overall coding efficiency.

In contrast to other functions like validating code, creating backups, or automatically refactoring, the purpose of a syntax highlighter is purely centered on visual representation rather than manipulative or functional tasks. By improving code readability, syntax highlighting contributes greatly to developers’ productivity and understanding of complex code structures.