As a new Python developer, it’s essential to develop good coding habits early on in your career. This will help you write clean, efficient, and well-structured code that is easy to maintain and understand. Here are six tips to help you get started:
1. **Simplify Complex Texts**: One of the most important things you can do as a developer is simplify complex texts. This means breaking down complicated concepts into smaller, more manageable pieces. When writing code, try to use simple language and avoid jargon or technical terms that might be confusing to others.
2. **Rely on Built-In Functions and Libraries**: Python has a vast array of built-in functions and libraries that you can rely on to save time and improve the performance of your code. For example, you can use the `append()` function to add items to a list or the `print()` function to display text to the console.
3. **Fix Code Issues as Soon as Possible**: When writing code, it’s essential to fix issues as soon as they arise. Don’t put off fixing bugs or errors because they can compound over time and cause problems later on. Use tools like IDEs and linters to help you identify and fix issues quickly.
4. **Use a Linter**: A linter is a tool that analyzes your code for potential errors, syntax issues, and stylistic inconsistencies. Using a linter can help you catch mistakes before they become major problems. Some popular Python linters include Pylint, Flake8, Ruff, Xenon, and Radon.
5. **Rely on Logging**: The logging module in Python is an invaluable tool for tracking events during runtime. It allows you to identify problems or errors while testing your code and provides valuable insights into the behavior of your project.
6. **Practice Makes Perfect**: The best way to learn is by doing. Continue using Python, even just to create simple projects for yourself. Practice writing clean code and try out different approaches to see what works best for you.
By following these six tips, you can develop good coding habits that will help you write better code and become a more effective developer. Remember to always simplify complex texts, rely on built-in functions and libraries, fix code issues as soon as possible, use a linter, rely on logging, and practice regularly.
Source: https://www.freecodecamp.org/news/how-to-build-good-coding-habits/