Best Programming Practices for Beginners in Python

Python is one of the most beginner-friendly programming languages, yet poor coding habits can make even simple scripts hard to read and maintain. According to a Stack Overflow Developer Survey, Python consistently ranks among the top programming languages for both beginners and professionals. But writing code isn’t just about making it work—it’s about making it efficient, readable, and scalable.

"Bad code works. Good code lasts." This principle applies to every developer, whether you're building a simple script or a full-scale application. Writing clean, structured, and maintainable Python code from the start saves time, reduces frustration, and makes debugging easier.

If you've ever struggled with messy scripts, forgotten what a function does after a few weeks, or spent hours fixing an indentation error, you're not alone! The good news? You don’t have to be a seasoned developer to follow best programming practices. Small habits—like planning before coding, using structured functions, and mastering IDE shortcuts—can significantly improve your workflow.

This guide covers the four essential best practices every Python beginner should follow. These aren’t theoretical concepts; they’re practical, actionable steps you can apply immediately to write better Python code. Let’s dive in!

1. Plan Before You Code

Jumping straight into coding without a clear plan can lead to messy code and unnecessary rework. Before writing a single line, take a moment to:

• Understand the Problem: Break it down into smaller, manageable steps.
• Write It Down: Sketch a solution using pseudocode or a simple list.
• Think About Possible Errors: Consider edge cases and potential issues before coding.

A little planning saves time and helps you write better code. This habit makes debugging easier and keeps your projects structured from the start.

2. Create a Task List

Instead of trying to tackle everything at once, list out the steps required to complete your program. A well-organized task list helps you stay on track and prevents unnecessary complexity in your Python code.

Example of a simple task list:

• Read user input
• Process the data
• Generate output
• Handle errors

Writing down your tasks not only clarifies your objectives but also makes debugging easier. If something breaks, you can quickly pinpoint which step is causing issues.

Whether you’re working on a small Python script or a larger development project, breaking down the process into smaller steps improves your efficiency, readability, and maintainability.

3. Organize Your Functions

Functions are the building blocks of Python programming. They make your code modular, reusable, and easier to debug. Without properly structured functions, your script can become a tangled mess of repetitive code.

Follow these best practices when writing functions in Python:

• One Function, One Purpose: Keep each function focused on a single task.
• Use Clear Names: Instead of func1(), use something meaningful like calculate_total_price().
• Keep Functions Short: If a function gets too long, break it down into smaller functions.
• Use Docstrings: Always include a short description of what your function does.

Example of a well-structured function:

    def get_full_name(first_name, last_name):
        """Returns the full name by combining first and last names."""
        return f"{first_name} {last_name}"
                    

Proper function organization makes your Python development smoother and helps in collaboration, debugging, and scaling your code. Good function design ensures your programs remain clean, maintainable, and easy to understand.

💡 Tip: Speed Up Coding with Keyboard Shortcuts

Efficiency in Python programming isn’t just about writing good code—it’s also about working smarter and faster. If you’re using PyCharm or VS Code, mastering keyboard shortcuts will boost your productivity and workflow.

PyCharm Shortcuts:

• Run Script: Shift + F10
• Reformat Code: Ctrl + Alt + L
• Quick Fix: Alt + Enter
• Find in File: Ctrl + F
• Rename Variable: Shift + F6
• Comment/Uncomment Line: Ctrl + /
• Indentation Fix: Tab (indent), Shift + Tab (unindent)

VS Code Shortcuts:

• Run Script: Ctrl + Shift + B
• Format Code: Shift + Alt + F
• Quick Fix: Ctrl + .
• Find in File: Ctrl + F
• Rename Variable: F2
• Comment/Uncomment Line: Ctrl + /
• Indentation Fix: Tab (indent), Shift + Tab (unindent)

Getting comfortable with these shortcuts will help you navigate, debug, and format your Python scripts efficiently. The more you use them, the faster your workflow becomes!

Final Thoughts

Embarking on your Python programming journey is both exciting and challenging. By implementing these best practices—planning before coding, creating structured task lists, organizing your functions effectively, and utilizing keyboard shortcuts—you lay a strong foundation for success. These habits not only enhance your coding efficiency but also make your code more readable and maintainable.

Remember, the goal is to write code that works and stands the test of time. As you continue to learn and grow, consistently applying these principles will serve you well.