<!--
title: avoid underscore prefixes
domain: app-frameworks
topic: Naming Conventions
language: JavaScript
source: discourse/discourse
updated: 2025-08-18
url: https://awesomereviewers.com/reviewers/discourse-avoid-underscore-prefixes/
-->

Do not use underscore prefixes (`_`) for private or internal methods and properties. The team consensus is to avoid this naming convention. Instead, use one of these alternatives:

1. **Remove the prefix entirely** for methods that don't need to be explicitly marked as private
2. **Use proper private syntax** with `#` prefix for truly private class members

**Examples:**

❌ Avoid:
```javascript
_isInLightMode() {
  return this.interfaceColor.colorModeIsLight;
}

_getUserColorSchemeDifferences() {
  // implementation
}
```

✅ Prefer:
```javascript
// Option 1: Remove prefix
isInLightMode() {
  return this.interfaceColor.colorModeIsLight;
}

// Option 2: Use proper private syntax
#getUserColorSchemeDifferences() {
  // implementation
}

// Option 3: Convert to getter when appropriate
get userColorSchemeDifferences() {
  // implementation
}
```

This convention improves code clarity and follows modern JavaScript standards while maintaining team consistency.