What is the main purpose of comments in C++?

The primary purpose of comments in C++ is to explain the code to other readers. Comments are non-executable lines of text included in the code that provide clarity and insight into what specific sections of the code do, making it easier for others (or the original developer at a later time) to understand the logic, intentions, and functionality behind it. This improves code maintainability and helps foster collaboration among developers, as well-documented code is easier to follow and modify.

Comments can describe complex algorithms, highlight important considerations regarding the implementation, or provide context about variable usage. Their presence does not affect the execution or performance of the code, as they are ignored during compilation. Thus, they play a crucial role in software development by enhancing readability and comprehension, ensuring that code can be more easily understood by a variety of readers or team members.