DOT
DOT is a plain-text graph description language used to define nodes, edges, and their attributes for visualizing networks and hierarchical structures. It is primarily associated with Graphviz, an open-source graph visualization software, where DOT files serve as input to generate diagrams in formats like SVG, PNG, or PDF. This language enables developers and analysts to create complex graphs programmatically without manual drawing tools.
Developers should learn DOT when they need to generate visual representations of data structures, dependencies, workflows, or network topologies, such as in software architecture diagrams, database schemas, or organizational charts. It is particularly useful in documentation, data analysis, and automated reporting pipelines where consistent, scalable graph generation is required, often integrated into build processes or data visualization tools.