Part II (Creating High Quality Code), V (Code Improvements) , VI (System Considerations) and VII (Software Craftmanship) from Code Complete is one of the best S

Part II (Creating High Quality Code), V (Code Improvements) , VI (System Considerations) and VII (Software Craftmanship) from Code Complete is one of the best SE reading I have had the pleasure to read. I don't consider that stuff basic (as compared to variable naming which you might be alluding to). The first three chapters are too basic IMO and are not even worth reading for any experienced professional.