C# Readonly: Key Features Explained

The readonly keyword in C# is used to declare read-only fields or properties. It indicates to the compiler that the field or property can only be assigned a value during declaration or in the constructor, and cannot be modified afterwards.

Read-only fields must be initialized at the time of declaration or in the constructor of the class, and cannot be assigned again. This ensures that the field remains unchanged throughout the object’s entire lifespan.

Read-only properties also have similar characteristics, but they are typically used to return computed values rather than store data. Read-only properties can only be initialized at the declaration or in the constructor using property initializer syntax.

The use of the readonly keyword can improve the readability and maintainability of the code, while also preventing unintended modifications to immutable data.