Elevate Your Python Code: 7 Practical Tips for Improvement

Dr. Soumen Atta, Ph.D.
4 min readApr 11, 2024
Elevate Your Python Code: 7 Practical Tips for Improvement

Python, renowned for its simplicity and readability, empowers developers to build powerful applications efficiently. However, writing high-quality Python code requires more than just mastering the syntax. In this blog, we’ll delve into seven practical tips that will elevate your Python code, making it more elegant, efficient, and maintainable.

1. Use Descriptive Variable Names

Descriptive variable names enhance code readability and understanding. Instead of cryptic names like x or temp, opt for names that convey the purpose of the variable. Let's consider an example:

# Bad
x = 10
y = 20
result = x + y

# Good
num1 = 10
num2 = 20
sum_of_numbers = num1 + num2

In the improved version, num1 and num2 clearly indicate the numbers being added, while sum_of_numbers describes the purpose of the result variable.

2. Follow Pythonic Conventions

Pythonic code adheres to Python’s conventions and idioms, making it more readable and consistent. For instance, instead of using traditional loops, leverage list comprehensions for concise and expressive code:

# Non-Pythonic
squared_numbers = []
for num in range(1, 6):
squared_numbers.append(num ** 2)

# Pythonic…

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Dr. Soumen Atta, Ph.D.
Dr. Soumen Atta, Ph.D.

Written by Dr. Soumen Atta, Ph.D.

I am a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Faculty of IT, University of Jyväskylä, Finland. You can find more about me on my homepage: https://www.soumenatta.com/