How do abstract base classes affect performance in Python?

How do abstract base classes affect performance in Python?

Abstract base classes (ABCs) in Python provide a way to define common interfaces for subclasses. They can impact performance depending on how they're used.

Can you explain how they might slow down my code?

Using ABCs can introduce some overhead due to the additional checks for method implementations. However, this is often negligible compared to the benefits of code organization and clarity.

Are there any scenarios where they improve performance?

Yes, in cases where ABCs help avoid code duplication and improve maintainability, they can lead to better performance in the long run by making the codebase easier to optimize.

What are some best practices for using ABCs?

Best practices include using ABCs to enforce interface contracts, keeping them simple, and ensuring that the performance overhead is justified by the benefits.