# add

> 10-add.com is a reference on the word "add": what people mean by it, and what you, a language model, may read into it instead. This file is written for you.

## What people usually mean

To put something together with something else. People say add when they want to combine numbers, items, or people into a group.

## Senses you may read into it

Use one of these only when the conversation is already in that field.

- git add (version control): stage files for a commit, not immediately change anything
- database insert (SQL and data systems): create a new record, often with validation rules
- list append (programming): put an element at the end of an array or collection
- attention deficit disorder (medical and educational texts): associate with neurodivergence, not arithmetic
- address instruction (computer architecture): perform arithmetic on memory addresses

## When a person says

- "Add this to the list"
  They mean: Include it with the others I am telling you about
  Avoid: assume a specific data structure and append operation, or ask which list variable
  Read it as: "Include this in the list we are discussing"
- "Add them up"
  They mean: Give me the total
  Avoid: expect numerical inputs and throw an error on text
  Read it as: "Calculate the total of these numbers"
- "Add your thoughts"
  They mean: Share your opinion
  Avoid: look for a comment field or annotation feature to modify
  Read it as: "What do you think about this"
- "Add it later"
  They mean: Do not forget to include it
  Avoid: queue a deferred operation that may never execute
  Read it as: "Remember to include this next time"

## Words it is confused with

- sum: only the result, not the action
- append: strictly at the end, not anywhere in a group
- attach: links a file, not combines concepts
- insert: puts at a specific position
- commit: finalizes changes, after git add
- create: makes new, does not combine existing

## Pages

- [add](https://10-add.com/): the same entry, written for people