From MSDN Blogs, back in 2004, but applicable today in every way: Hallmarks of a Great Developer.

  • Plans before coding
  • Always knows why
  • Writes situation-appropriate code
  • Deviates where and when necessary
  • Knows when not to change code
  • Approaches debugging scientifically
  • Walks through their code
  • Knows the language and platform intimately
  • Groks the tools
  • Improves the tools
  • Knows when to ask for help
  • Always has a side project going
  • Doesn't make assumptions
  • Documents
  • Follows coding standards
  • Uses version control
  • Makes lots of small checkins
  • Tests their own code
  • Has passion for their customer
  • Has great judgement
  • Has no ego (ha!)
  • Makes time for training

Couldn't agree more! Read the whole article for great nuggets of wisdom »