What are type hints in Python 3.10 and how do they improve code quality?

What are type hints in Python 3.10 and how do they improve code quality?

Type hints in Python 3.10 provide a way to indicate the expected data types of variables, function parameters, and return values. This helps improve code readability and allows for better static analysis, making it easier to catch errors before runtime.

Can you give me an example of how to use type hints in a function?

Sure! Here's a simple example:

def add_numbers(a: int, b: int) -> int:
    return a + b

In this function, a and b are expected to be integers, and the function returns an integer.

What libraries support type hints in Python?

Many libraries support type hints, including popular ones like pydantic for data validation, mypy for static type checking, and typing which provides various utilities for type hints.

Are there any downsides to using type hints?

While type hints improve code clarity and help with error detection, they can also add complexity to the codebase and may require additional effort to maintain, especially in large projects.