Learn some Python tools and tricks to avoid common mistakes.

Pythonic Style of Programming: Tips and Tricks

When you run code in Python, there’s a lot happening under the hood. This module sheds light on some of the lesser-known parts of Python.

As you progress through it, you’ll learn some tools and tricks that every Python programmer should know to avoid common mistakes. You can think of this module as a “Python hacks” handbook.

Python basics are a prerequisite, but this is a beginner-level course. Each lesson is independent and after the first chapter, you can pick up from any lesson, and you’ll be able to follow along comfortably.

Python FTW: Under the Hood

def some_func(default_arg=[]):
    default_arg.append("some_string")
    return default_arg

print(some_func())
print(some_func())
print(some_func([]))
print(some_func())

<h1> Explanation </h1>

The default mutable arguments of functions in Python aren’t really initialized every time you call the function. Instead, their recently assigned value is used as the default value. When we explicitly passed `[]` to `some_func` as the argument, the default value of the `default_arg` variable was not used, so the function returned as expected.


Let's see an example of this below:

   

Introduction

Slippery Slopes

Strain Your Brain!

Appearances Are Deceptive!

The Hidden Treasures!

Miscellaneous

Conclusion

Beware of Default Mutable Arguments!