CMake Option Naming Convention for Conditional Parts/Dependencies Explained

CMake is a powerful tool for managing the build process of your C++ projects. It allows you to easily specify dependencies, compile flags, and other options for your project. One of the key features of CMake is its ability to conditionally build parts of your project based on certain options. In this article, we will explain the naming convention for these conditional parts and dependencies in CMake.

Before we dive into the naming convention, let's first understand what we mean by "conditional parts" and "dependencies" in CMake. Conditional parts are pieces of code that are executed only if a certain option is enabled. Dependencies, on the other hand, are external libraries or executables that your project relies on. These dependencies are often specified using the find_package() or find_library() commands.

Naming convention for conditional parts

In CMake, you can use the option() command to define a boolean option. This option can then be used to conditionally build parts of your project. For example:

option(ENABLE_MY_FEATURE "Enable my feature" OFF)
if(ENABLE_MY_FEATURE)
  # Build my feature
endif()

The name of the option should be descriptive and follow a consistent naming convention. Here are some guidelines for naming options:

• Use all uppercase letters, with underscores between words. For example, ENABLE_MY_FEATURE.
• Start the name with the word "ENABLE" or "DISABLE". This makes it clear that the option is a boolean option.
• Use a descriptive name for the option. This should indicate what the option controls. For example, ENABLE_MY_FEATURE indicates that the option controls the enabling of a specific feature.
• Avoid using the same name for different options. This can lead to confusion and errors.

Naming convention for dependencies

In CMake, you can use the find_package() or find_library() commands to specify dependencies. These commands search for the specified package or library, and set variables that you can use to link against the dependency. For example:

find_package(MyDependency REQUIRED)
include_directories(${MyDependency_INCLUDE_DIRS})
target_link_libraries(MyTarget ${MyDependency_LIBRARIES})

The name of the package or library should follow a consistent naming convention. Here are some guidelines for naming packages and libraries:

• Use all lowercase letters, with underscores between words. For example, my_dependency.
• Use a descriptive name for the package or library. This should indicate what the package or library does. For example, my_database indicates that the package or library provides database functionality.
• Avoid using the same name for different packages or libraries. This can lead to confusion and errors.
• Use a consistent naming convention for related packages or libraries. For example, if you have a package or library called my_database, you might name related packages or libraries my_database_utils or my_database_client.

In this article, we have explained the naming convention for conditional parts and dependencies in CMake. By following these guidelines, you can make your CMake code more readable and maintainable. Remember to use descriptive names for options and dependencies, and to follow a consistent naming convention for related items.

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