Western Governors University (WGU) ITSW 2113 D278 Scripting and Programming Foundations Practice Exam

A syntax error occurs during coding because it happens when the code is not written according to the rules of the programming language. This could include issues like missing punctuation, incorrect use of keywords, or failing to adhere to the language's grammar rules. These errors are typically caught by the compiler or interpreter before the program is executed, highlighting that they prevent the code from running successfully from the very beginning.

On the other hand, a runtime error takes place during execution after the code has been successfully compiled or interpreted. Runtime errors can arise due to various unforeseen conditions that could not be predicted at the code-writing stage, such as trying to divide by zero, accessing an invalid index in an array, or running out of memory.

Understanding the distinction between the two types of errors is crucial for debugging. Syntax errors must be resolved in the coding phase, while runtime errors necessitate careful testing and handling during the program's execution. This clarity helps programmers write more robust and error-tolerant code.