What does the term 'syntax' refer to in programming?

The term 'syntax' in programming refers to the set of rules that defines correctly structured programs. Just as grammar defines the structure of sentences in a language, programming syntax dictates how code must be correctly arranged and formatted to be understood by the computer. Each programming language has its own unique syntax that programmers must follow, including the proper use of keywords, operators, punctuation, and other elements.

Understanding correct syntax is crucial for writing functional code, as even minor deviations from these rules can lead to syntax errors, which prevent the program from running. This concept of syntax is foundational in programming, as it ensures that the written code is interpretable by the compiler or interpreter of the programming language being used.

The other options refer to different aspects of programming. Naming conventions are about how variables should be named, code optimization relates to improving performance, and debugging techniques involve finding and resolving errors in the software, but none of these pertain directly to the structural rules governing the language itself, which is what syntax encapsulates.