C# Source Generators: Automating Code Creation

ummary & takeaways

  • Field-backed properties in C# 14 (via the field contextual keyword) let you access the compiler-generated backing field inside property accessors.

  • This gives you the best of both worlds: simplicity of auto-properties + ability to inject logic (validation, normalization) without manual boilerplate.

  • The field keyword is meaningful only inside property accessors and is replaced at compile time with the actual backing field.

  • Watch out for naming conflicts if you already have a field symbol.

  • Use field for light logic; for heavier, more complex requirements, manual backing fields might still be more suitable.

  • To use this feature, you may need to set your LangVersion to preview or a version supporting C# 14.