Tips to write better Smart Contracts.

Smart contracts are simply programs stored on a blockchain that run when predetermined conditions are met. They typically are used to automate the execution of an agreement so that all participants can be immediately certain of the outcome, without any intermediary’s involvement or time loss. They can also automate a workflow, triggering the next action when conditions are met.

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Smart contracts work by following simple “if/when…then…” statements that are written into code on a blockchain. A network of computers executes the actions  when predetermined conditions have been met and verified. These actions could include releasing funds to the appropriate parties, registering a vehicle, sending notifications, or issuing a ticket. The blockchain is then updated when the transaction is completed. That means the transaction cannot be changed, and only parties who have been granted permission can see the results. Within a smart contract, there can be as many stipulations as needed to satisfy the participants that the task will be completed satisfactorily. To establish the terms, participants must determine how transactions and their data are represented on the blockchain, agree on the “if/when...then…” rules that govern those transactions, explore all possible exceptions, and define a framework for resolving disputes.

Then the smart contract can be programmed by a developer – although increasingly, organizations that use blockchain for business provide templates, web interfaces, and other online tools to simplify structuring smart contracts.

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Here are few tips to write better Smart contracts for Blockchain development:

1. Start with a clear understanding of the business logic: Before writing a smart contract, make sure you have a clear understanding of the business logic that the contract is supposed to represent. This will help you create a more efficient and effective contract.
2. Keep it simple: Smart contracts should be kept as simple as possible. Overly complex contracts can be difficult to audit and may introduce unexpected bugs or security vulnerabilities.
3. Test, test, test: Test your smart contracts thoroughly to ensure that they function as intended. Use tools like Truffle and Ganache to run tests and simulate real-world scenarios.
4. Use established best practices: Follow established best practices for smart contract development. This includes practices such as using secure coding practices, avoiding unnecessary complexity, and minimizing gas usage.
5. Use well-audited libraries: When possible, use well-audited libraries to help ensure that your smart contract is secure and free of vulnerabilities.
6. Keep security in mind: Security is critical when writing smart contracts. Always assume that someone will try to exploit any vulnerabilities in your code. Make sure to use secure coding practices and libraries.
7. Document your code: Document your code clearly and thoroughly so that others can understand what your contract does and how it works.
8. Consider gas usage: Gas usage can impact the cost of deploying and executing your smart contract. Consider ways to minimize gas usage, such as using storage-efficient data structures or batching transactions.
9. Plan for upgrades: Plan for the possibility of upgrades to your smart contract. This can include designing the contract to be upgradeable, using proxy contracts, or implementing an upgradeable contract pattern.
10. Consider the user experience: Consider the user experience when designing your smart contract. Make it easy for users to interact with the contract and understand its functionality.

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Moreover, having a fresh set of eyes, not hampered by tunnel vision, often catches bugs that slip through the developer’s net. Second opinions and expert advice are very valuable tools, so use them where possible. They have the benefit of making your more critical of your work before you allow yourself to show it to others. Get it audited by expert third party auditors and ensure safety of your code before releasing your dApp to the whole world to use.

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