---
title: Centralize Constants
impact: HIGH
impactDescription: makes values easy to find and update
tags: constants, magic-numbers, configuration, quality, csharp
---

## Centralize Constants

Avoid magic numbers and strings. Use `const` fields or configuration.

**Incorrect (magic strings/numbers):**

```csharp
if (status == "Active") { }
if (count > 5) { }
```

**Correct (centralized):**

```csharp
public static class Constants
{
    public const string StatusActive = "Active";
    public const int MaxRetries = 5;
}

// Usage
if (status == Constants.StatusActive) { }
if (count > Constants.MaxRetries) { }
```

**Tools:** Roslyn Analyzers, SonarQube