Arizona State University (ASU) CSE240 Introduction to Programming Languages Midterm Practice Exam

The essential distinction between static and dynamic typing lies in when the type information for variables is determined. In static typing, the type of each variable is known at compile time, which means that the compiler can check for type errors before the program is executed. This can lead to more optimized code, as the compiler has complete visibility of the variable types.

In contrast, dynamic typing resolves types at runtime, meaning that type checks are performed as the program runs. This allows for greater flexibility in how variables are used and can lead to faster prototyping and less code verbosity since developers do not have to specify types explicitly. However, it can also introduce runtime errors that only become apparent when a particular piece of code is executed.

Understanding this core difference is critical, as it influences programming style, error detection, debugging strategies, and performance characteristics of the language in use. Thus, the correct answer emphasizes the fundamental timing of type determination in static versus dynamic typing.