InlineCode

InlineCode refers to small fragments of programming or command-line text that appear within running prose. It is distinct from code blocks, which present larger programs or outputs. Inline code is typically rendered in a monospaced font and set apart from surrounding text to signal that the content is code. It is used to mention identifiers, function names, commands, file paths, or concrete example snippets.

Markup and rendering systems define how inline code is indicated. In Markdown, inline code is placed between backticks, for example: `print("Hello")`. If the code itself contains backticks, one can enclose it with a longer sequence of backticks, e.g., `` `code` ``. In reStructuredText, inline literals are designated with double backticks, as in ``function(x)``. In HTML, inline code is represented with the code element, which conveys the semantic meaning to assistive technologies and can be styled via CSS.

Best practices emphasize short, focused code snippets, avoiding complete sentences written as code, and maintaining consistent styling across a document. For longer examples, use a separate code block rather than inline code. Inline code should be accompanied by brief explanations when necessary, and authors should consider readability and accessibility, ensuring sufficient contrast and proper semantic markup.