When should I use duck typing?

What is duck typing and when should I use it?

Duck typing is a concept in programming where the type or class of an object is determined by its behavior rather than its explicit type. You should use it when you want to write more flexible and reusable code.

Can you give me an example of duck typing in Python?

Sure! In Python, if you have a function that expects an object to have a 'quack' method, it doesn't matter what the object's actual type is, as long as it implements that method. This allows for more dynamic and adaptable code.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using duck typing?

The advantages include increased flexibility and easier code reuse. However, the disadvantages are that it can lead to runtime errors if the expected methods are not present, making debugging more challenging.

When should I avoid using duck typing?

You should avoid duck typing in situations where type safety is critical, such as in large codebases or when working with complex systems where explicit types can help prevent errors.