Named Returns Linter
Named Returns Linter is a Go static analysis tool that enforces the use of named return values in all functions. Named returns make function signatures self-documenting by giving meaningful names to output values, eliminating the need to read the function body to understand what it returns.
The linter analyzes Go source files and reports any function that uses unnamed return values. It supports checking test files (enabled by default) and can be integrated into CI/CD pipelines alongside other Go linters like golangci-lint. The tool is designed to be strict by default, encouraging consistent coding standards across an entire codebase.
Named returns are more than a stylistic preference. They improve code readability during reviews, make refactoring safer by giving return values explicit identifiers, and reduce the likelihood of subtle bugs caused by returning values in the wrong order. The linter enforces this discipline automatically so teams do not have to rely on manual code review to catch violations.