What are best practices for using functions in bash?

When using functions in bash scripts, there are several best practices that can improve readability, maintainability, and efficiency. Below are some of the key practices to consider:

• Define Functions Early: Place function definitions at the beginning of your script for better organization.
• Use Descriptive Names: Function names should clearly describe their purpose. This makes it easier for others to understand your code.
• Keep Functions Focused: Each function should accomplish a single task. This principle enhances reusability and debugging.
• Document Your Functions: Add comments to describe what each function does, its inputs, and its outputs.
• Use Local Variables: Use the 'local' keyword to declare variables in functions to avoid polluting the global namespace.
• Return Status Codes: Use exit statuses to indicate success or failure, making your functions more reliable.
• Handle Errors Gracefully: Implement error handling within your functions to deal with unexpected situations effectively.

By following these best practices, you can create more effective and cleaner bash scripts that are easier to read and maintain.