```markdown
Python has a distinct and readable syntax, which is one of the reasons for its popularity. To ensure that Python code is clean, maintainable, and consistent, it's crucial to follow Python's code style guidelines. The Python community has developed a set of conventions known as PEP 8 (Python Enhancement Proposal 8), which serves as the foundation for writing readable Python code.
Python uses indentation to define code blocks, and it is crucial to maintain consistent indentation throughout the code. The preferred indentation is 4 spaces per level. Avoid using tabs, and make sure the code editor is configured to insert spaces when pressing the tab key.
Example:
python
def greet(name):
print(f"Hello, {name}!")
Lines of code should be limited to 79 characters to enhance readability, especially when viewing code side by side. For docstrings and comments, the line length should be limited to 72 characters.
Example: ```python
def some_function(arg1, arg2, arg3): return arg1 + arg2 + arg3 ```
Variable and function names should be written in snake_case (all lowercase letters with underscores separating words). This makes it easy to differentiate from class names, which use CamelCase.
Example:
python
def calculate_area(radius):
return 3.14 * radius * radius
Class names should follow CapWords (also known as CamelCase) convention, where each word starts with an uppercase letter and no underscores are used.
Example:
python
class Circle:
def __init__(self, radius):
self.radius = radius
Constants should be written in ALL_CAPS with words separated by underscores. This convention is typically used for values that are not supposed to change.
Example:
python
PI = 3.14159
MAX_RETRIES = 5
Every public class and function should have a docstring that explains what it does. A docstring should be placed immediately after the function or class definition and should be enclosed in triple quotes (""").
Example: ```python def add(a, b): """ Adds two numbers and returns the result.
Parameters:
a (int or float): The first number
b (int or float): The second number
Returns:
int or float: The sum of a and b
"""
return a + b
```
Write comments to explain code logic, but avoid stating the obvious. Use full sentences and start comments with a capital letter. Single-line comments should be prefixed with a #.
Example: ```python
for item in items: print(item) ```
For comments that span multiple lines, use a block comment:
python
"""
This is a block comment.
It explains something more complex that requires more than one line.
"""
Imports should be written in the following order:
Each group of imports should be separated by a blank line.
Example: ```python import os import sys
import requests
from mymodule import my_function ```
When importing modules, use aliases if it makes the code more readable or if the module name is too long. However, avoid creating unnecessary abbreviations that may reduce clarity.
Example:
python
import numpy as np
import pandas as pd
PEP 8 recommends avoiding unnecessary whitespace in expressions and statements. Follow these rules:
Example:
python
x = 10 + 20
y = (a + b) * (c - d)
There should be a single space after each comma in a list or function argument.
Example:
python
def my_function(arg1, arg2, arg3):
pass
* for ImportsWhile it may seem convenient, using from module import * is discouraged, as it can make the code unclear and difficult to debug.
Example: ```python
from math import *
import math ```
List comprehensions are a concise and readable way to create lists. Whenever possible, prefer list comprehensions over traditional loops.
Example: ```python
squares = [] for x in range(10): squares.append(x * x)
squares = [x * x for x in range(10)] ```
Following Python's code style guidelines helps keep the code consistent, readable, and maintainable. By adhering to PEP 8, developers can contribute to a better and more collaborative Python ecosystem.
For a detailed overview, refer to the full PEP 8 document. ```