What are type hints in Python 3.10 and how do I use them?

What are type hints in Python 3.10 and how do I use them?

Type hints in Python 3.10 are a way to indicate the expected data types of variables, function parameters, and return values. They help improve code readability and enable better static type checking.

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

Sure! Here's a simple example:

def greet(name: str) -> str:
    return f'Hello, {name}!'

In this function, name is expected to be a string, and the function returns a string.

What are the benefits of using type hints?

Type hints improve code clarity, help with debugging, and enable tools like linters and IDEs to catch type-related errors before runtime.

Are there any limitations to using type hints?

Yes, type hints are optional and do not enforce type checking at runtime. They are mainly for documentation and tooling purposes.