---
title: Use snake_case for symbols, methods, and variables
impact: MEDIUM
impactDescription: Follow Ruby community naming conventions for consistency and readability.
tags: ruby, naming, snake_case, convention
---

## Use snake_case for symbols, methods, and variables

Follow Ruby community naming conventions for consistency and readability. Use `snake_case` (all lowercase with underscores) for symbols, methods, and variables. Avoid camelCase or other naming styles for these elements.

**Incorrect:**

```ruby
def calculateTotal(price, taxRate)
  totalAmount = price * taxRate
  :orderStatus
end
```

**Correct:**

```ruby
def calculate_total(price, tax_rate)
  total_amount = price * tax_rate
  :order_status
end
```

**Tools:** RuboCop (`Naming/VariableName`, `Naming/MethodName`)