What are the Python variable naming conventions?
Coming from a C# background, the naming conventions for variables and methods are usually either camelCase or PascalCase:
// C# example
string thisIsMyVariable = "a";
public void ThisIsMyMethod()
In Python, I have seen the above styles, but I have also seen snake_case being used:
# Python example
this_is_my_variable = 'a'
def this_is_my_function():
Can someone clarify the python variable naming conventions and the best practices to follow?
In Python, the recommended convention for variable and function names is snake_case, where all letters are lowercase and words are separated by underscores. This is the most commonly used convention in Python as per PEP 8.
Example:
user_name = "John Doe"
def calculate_area(radius):
return 3.14 * radius * radius
While snake_case is used for variables and functions, Python uses PascalCase (or CamelCase) for class names. The first letter of each word in the class name is capitalized, and there are no underscores.
Example:
class Circle: def init(self, radius): self.radius = radius def area(self): return 3.14 * self.radius * self.radius
Even though some Python developers use camelCase for variables or functions due to influences from other languages like C# or JavaScript, it is not recommended. Stick to snake_case for variables and functions to maintain consistency with Python’s style guide (PEP 8).
Example (not recommended):
userName = "John Doe" # Not recommended in Python
def calculateArea(radius): # Not recommended in Python
return 3.14 * radius * radius
By following the python variable naming conventions, you ensure that your code remains clean, readable, and consistent with Python’s best practices.