What are the best practices for writing Python code according to PEP 8?

What are the best practices for writing Python code according to PEP 8?

PEP 8 is the style guide for Python code. It emphasizes readability and consistency. Key practices include using 4 spaces for indentation, limiting lines to 79 characters, and using blank lines to separate functions and classes.

Can you explain why using 4 spaces for indentation is important?

Using 4 spaces for indentation helps maintain consistency across codebases, making it easier for developers to read and understand each other's code. It also prevents errors that can arise from mixing tabs and spaces.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when following PEP 8?

Common mistakes include using inconsistent indentation, not following naming conventions for variables and functions, and neglecting to add whitespace around operators and after commas.

Are there any tools to help enforce PEP 8 guidelines?

Yes, tools like flake8, pylint, and black can help enforce PEP 8 guidelines by checking your code for style violations and automatically formatting it.