What is the difference between static typing and dynamic typing?

Static typing and dynamic typing are fundamental concepts in the realm of programming languages, particularly concerning how types are handled.

The correct choice highlights that static typing involves checking the types of variables at compile-time, meaning that type errors are caught during the compilation process before the program runs. This allows developers to identify and fix type-related errors early in the development cycle, which can lead to more robust and reliable code. Common languages that use static typing include Java and C++.

On the other hand, dynamic typing checks types at runtime. This means that type errors may not be discovered until the program is actually executed, which can lead to unforeseen bugs if a variable is of an unexpected type at that moment.

Understanding the distinction between these two systems is crucial for programmers because it affects how they write, debug, and maintain code. Static typing can lead to better performance and earlier error detection, while dynamic typing can afford programmers more flexibility and ease of use, particularly in rapid prototyping and scripting contexts.