Rules for Naming Variables in Python: Best Practices

Question

Hey everyone! 👋 Naming variables in Python can seem tricky, but it's super important for writing clean and understandable code. Think of it like giving nicknames - you want them to be relevant and easy to remember! Let's break down the rules and best practices in a fun and interactive way. 🐍

katherine.simmons · Accepted Answer

📚 Topic Summary
In Python, variables are names that refer to values. Choosing good variable names makes your code easier to read and understand. There are specific rules you need to follow, such as starting with a letter or underscore and not using reserved keywords. Sticking to best practices, like using descriptive names and consistent naming conventions, greatly improves your code's maintainability and readability.

🧠 Part A: Vocabulary
Match the term with the correct definition:

Term
  Definition

1. Identifier
  A. A word that has a special meaning in Python and cannot be used as a variable name.

2. Keyword
  B. A name used to identify a variable, function, class, or other object.

3. Snake Case
  C. A suggested style of writing identifiers, where words are separated by underscores (e.g., my_variable).

4. Reserved Word
  D. Another term for 'Keyword'.

5. Variable
  E. A storage location in a computer's memory, which is given a name.

📝 Part B: Fill in the Blanks
Complete the following paragraph using the words provided:
(lowercase, underscore, readable, descriptive, keywords)
When naming variables in Python, it's best practice to use ___________ names that clearly indicate the variable's purpose. Variable names should start with a letter or an ___________. Avoid using Python ___________ as variable names. Using ___________ and meaningful variable names makes your code more ___________. It is also standard to use ___________ for multi-word variables.

💡 Part C: Critical Thinking
Explain why choosing meaningful variable names is important for code maintainability and collaboration. Provide an example of a poorly named variable and a better alternative.

Rules for Naming Variables in Python: Best Practices

1 Answers

📚 Topic Summary

🧠 Part A: Vocabulary

📝 Part B: Fill in the Blanks

💡 Part C: Critical Thinking

Join the discussion

Term	Definition
1. Identifier	A. A word that has a special meaning in Python and cannot be used as a variable name.
2. Keyword	B. A name used to identify a variable, function, class, or other object.
3. Snake Case	C. A suggested style of writing identifiers, where words are separated by underscores (e.g., `my_variable`).
4. Reserved Word	D. Another term for 'Keyword'.
5. Variable	E. A storage location in a computer's memory, which is given a name.