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

- As mentioned in one of the previous chapters, classes can implement the `+=` and `+` operators differently. For concatenating more than two strings, `+=` is faster.
- To make giant strings iteratively, it is better to use format strings. If you have all the strings already available in an iterable, use the `join()` method.
- Python implements some optimization for dictionary with string-only-keys, which make lookups faster (due to a faster string comparison method used for strings). This effect only stays until the dictionary is not polluted by non-`str` keys.


Introduction

Slippery Slopes

Strain Your Brain!

Appearances Are Deceptive!

The Hidden Treasures!

Miscellaneous

Conclusion

Quick Recap