ColdFusion Coding Standards

• Use CFScript where possible for cleaner syntax.
• Avoid using deprecated tags and functions.
• Follow consistent naming conventions for variables and components.
• Use cfqueryparam to prevent SQL injection.
• Escape CSS hash symbols inside <cfoutput> blocks using ##
• When using HTMX inside <cfoutput> blocks, escape hash symbols (#) by using double hashes (##) to prevent unintended variable interpolation.
• If you are in a HTMX target file then make sure the top line is: <cfsetting showDebugOutput = "false">

Additional Best Practices

• Use Application.cfc for application settings and request handling.

• Organize code into reusable CFCs (components) for maintainability.

• Validate and sanitize all user input.

• Use cftry/cfcatch for error handling and logging.

• Avoid hardcoding credentials or sensitive data in source files.

• Use consistent indentation (2 spaces, as per global standards).

• Comment complex logic and document functions with purpose and parameters.

• Prefer cfinclude for shared templates, but avoid circular includes.

• Use ternary operators where possible

• Ensure consistent tab alignment.