๐ Topic Summary
Docstrings are multiline strings used to document Python code. They're written within triple quotes ("""Docstring content""" or '''Docstring content''') and placed at the beginning of modules, classes, functions, or methods. Docstrings explain the purpose, arguments, and return values of a code block, making it easier for others (and your future self!) to understand and use your code. Following best practices and style guides, like PEP 257, ensures consistency and readability across projects.
๐ Part A: Vocabulary
Match the term with its definition:
| Term |
Definition |
| 1. PEP 257 |
A. A description of what a function returns. |
| 2. Docstring |
B. A style guide for writing docstrings in Python. |
| 3. Return Value |
C. Information about the parameters a function accepts. |
| 4. Arguments |
D. A string literal that occurs as the first statement in a module, function, class, or method definition. |
| 5. Sphinx |
E. A tool that generates documentation from docstrings. |
(Answers: 1-B, 2-D, 3-A, 4-C, 5-E)
โ๏ธ Part B: Fill in the Blanks
Docstrings are essential for good code __________. They are written using __________ quotes and placed at the beginning of a __________, __________, or __________. Following a style guide like __________ ensures your docstrings are consistent and __________. Tools like __________ can then use your docstrings to generate documentation.
(Answers: documentation, triple, module, class, function, PEP 257, readable, Sphinx)
๐ค Part C: Critical Thinking
Why is it important to keep docstrings up-to-date as you modify your code?