Definition
Pair programming is a collaborative technique in which two developers work on the same task at a single workstation, whether physical or virtual. One person, the driver, writes code while the other, the navigator, reviews each line as it is written and thinks about the larger direction of the work.
The roles are fluid and swap often. The practice turns code review into a continuous activity rather than a discrete step that happens after the work is finished.
Why it matters
How it works
The driver focuses on the immediate tactical problem, the syntax and the next few lines. The navigator stays at a higher altitude, watching for design issues, edge cases, and whether the current path still serves the goal. Frequent role swaps keep both people engaged and prevent fatigue.
Pairing is most valuable on complex, ambiguous, or high-risk work. It is not always the right tool: routine tasks may not justify the cost, and effective pairing depends on psychological safety and compatible working styles.