Time blocking is a technique used to control the execution flow of programs by introducing deliberate delays. It's commonly applied in scenarios like rate limiting, synchronization, or simulating delays.

🧩 Basic Implementation Examples

Python

import time
time.sleep(2)  # Blocks execution for 2 seconds
time_blocking_concept

JavaScript

setTimeout(() => {
  console.log("This will run after 3 seconds");
}, 3000);

Go

time.Sleep(time.Second * 5) // Blocks for 5 seconds

📌 Common Use Cases

  • Preventing Overload: Limiting API request frequency
  • Synchronization: Coordinating tasks in parallel processes
  • Simulation: Testing delay-sensitive systems

⚠️ Important Notes

  1. Avoid blocking main threads in GUI applications 🚫
  2. Set reasonable timeout values ⏱️
  3. Consider non-blocking alternatives for performance ⚡

For more advanced techniques, check our guide on asynchronous programming.