What are design patterns used for?

Design patterns are used to solve common problems in software design. They provide proven, reusable solutions, making code:

• More understandable: Simplifies reading and understanding the system structure.
• More flexible: Facilitates changes and extension of functionality.
• More reliable: Reduces the likelihood of errors by using proven approaches.
• More portable: Allows the same solutions to be used across different projects.
• A common language: Provides a shared vocabulary for developers when discussing architecture.

Essentially, they are a set of best practices that standardize the approach to solving typical tasks.