Writing Clean Code in Python: Best Practices
Writing code that works is just the beginning. Writing clean code—code that’s readable, maintainable, and efficient—is what sets apart beginner programmers from true professionals.
In Python, clean code is especially important because readability is a core part of the language’s philosophy. This guide walks you through beginner-friendly best practices that help make your Python code easier to understand, share, and scale.
Why Clean Code Matters
- Reduces bugs by making logic clearer
- Saves time during maintenance and debugging
- Improves collaboration with teammates
- Makes learning easier for others (and your future self)
1. Follow the PEP 8 Style Guide
PEP 8 is Python’s official style guide. Some key tips:
✅ Use 4 spaces for indentation
✅ Limit lines to 79 characters
✅ Leave 2 blank lines between functions
✅ Use lowercase_with_underscores for variable and function names
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def calculate_total(price, tax_rate):
return price + (price * tax_rate)
2. Name Things Clearly
Use descriptive variable and function names that explain what something is or what it does.
❌ Bad:
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def f(x): return x * 1.2
✅ Good:
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def apply_tax(price): return price * 1.2
3. Keep Functions Short and Focused
Each function should do one thing, and do it well. Avoid writing large, complicated functions.
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def calculate_discounted_price(price, discount):
return price – (price * discount)
If your function is doing multiple things, break it into smaller functions.
4. Use Comments Wisely
Write comments that explain why the code exists—not just what it does. Don’t over-comment obvious code.
✅ Good comment:
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# Apply holiday discount
price = calculate_discounted_price(price, 0.1)
❌ Unnecessary comment:
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# Subtract discount from price
price = price – (price * 0.1)
5. Avoid Magic Numbers and Strings
Instead of hardcoding values, use named constants for better context.
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MAX_USERS = 100
WELCOME_MESSAGE = “Welcome to the system!”
if user_count > MAX_USERS:
print(WELCOME_MESSAGE)
6. Handle Errors Gracefully
Use try/except blocks to handle known errors and keep your code from crashing unexpectedly.
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try:
result = divide(x, y)
except ZeroDivisionError:
print(“Cannot divide by zero”)
7. Use List Comprehensions (But Don’t Overuse Them)
List comprehensions are clean and readable for simple transformations.
✅ Clean:
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squares = [x**2 for x in range(10)]
❌ Overkill:
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result = [func(x) for x in range(10) if x % 2 == 0 and some_other_check(x)]
If it gets too long or complex, use a regular for loop instead.
Practice Challenge
Try this:
Refactor a script you’ve written before. Focus on renaming variables, breaking large functions into smaller ones, and adding helpful comments. See how much more readable it becomes!
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