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Explore the hidden complexities of "plain text" in software development through this engaging conference talk by Dylan Beattie at NDC Copenhagen 2022. Delve into the world of text files, examining their crucial role in source code, configuration, and documentation. Uncover the assumptions and potential pitfalls behind the concept of "plain text files" in various contexts, including editors, revision control systems, and programming languages. Learn about peculiar bugs arising from text-related issues, such as unexpected character encodings and cultural differences. Gain insights into the historical evolution of text processing, from mechanical teletypes to modern encoding systems. Discover practical golden rules for working with plain text and understand the intricate relationships between text, operating systems, and international considerations. Through fascinating examples and anecdotes, grasp the far-reaching implications of text handling in software development and its impact on global systems.
