What is the best way to format Python code?

Writing Python code isn’t only about making it work properly; instead, it’s about crafting clear, readable, and maintainable programming lines. So that others (including you) can easily comprehend it.  

The way format Python code is formatted plays a pivotal role in achieving good clarity. However, here is a twist – it becomes really difficult to ensure good formatting while writing the code at the same time. 

So, the only option left is to first write the code, and when done, start performing the formatting. This will take valuable time and effort…right? We know!

That’s why we have come up with the best way to format the Python code.

The Quick & Effective Way to Format Python Code

The best way to quickly and accurately format the Python code is by utilizing Python formatters. These are online tools that are specifically designed to format and beautify the given code in a clear and readable manner while preserving the primary functionality. 

Remember, these tools don’t make any changes (adding or removing something) to the code. Instead, they simply arrange the code with proper line breaks and spacing.

In the section below, we have discussed a practical procedure for formatting Python code using such tools.

Step-by-Step Procedure You Need to Follow

The process is very simple; you just need to carefully follow the steps below.

1. Find a reliable Python Formatter

Firstly, you are required to explore the online world to find and pick the best Python formatter. There is a huge variety of Python beautifiers available online that can make it difficult for you to identify the right one. 

So, to help you out, here are some essential factors that you can consider paying attention to:

• Consider Ranking: Pick a tool that is ranking in the top Google search results, preferably in the top 3. This is because, usually, good and reliable websites have high rankings. 
• Offers Basic Facilities: Opt for a Python formatter that comes equipped with basic facilities. For example, you should have the option to edit both the input and output results on the spot. Additionally, the tool should highlight the code text in different colors for better understanding, giving you the feel of a code editor. 
• No Limitations: Finally, go for a solution that has no limitations, especially regarding the Python code length.

So, by taking these factors into consideration, you will be able to pick a reliable Python formatting tool.

2. Enter the Code & Start the Formatting Process

Once you have found the tool, it’s time to simply enter the Python code into it. This can be done either by directly pasting the code or uploading the file from local storage. 

To show you how it works, we’ll be using Python Formatter in the following demonstrations.

Now, let’s insert the following code into this tool.

# Sample Python code

def get_todos():

    todos = [

        {"userId": 1, "id": 1, "title": "delectus aut autem", "completed": False},

        {"userId": 1, "id": 2, "title": "quis ut nam facilis et officia qui", "completed": False},

        {"userId": 1, "id": 3, "title": "fugiat veniam minus", "completed": False}

    ]

    return todos

if __name__ == "__main__":

    print(get_todos())

After entering the code, this is how the tool’s interface now looks:

Now, hit the “Beautify” button to start the code formatting process.

3. Get Output Results

Within a matter of seconds after hitting the button, the Python formatter will come up with a clear, readable, and well-formatted version of the entered code. 

For reference, here is a screenshot of the output we got.

Some Tips to Consider

When formatting Python code with the help of online tools, there are multiple tips you need to follow:

• Always enter accurate code: As mentioned earlier, Python formatters are only beautifiers; they cannot compile or debug your code for potential errors. So, in case your entered code 
• Review the output before accepting: Don’t just blindly copy/download the formatted code and start using it. Instead, it is suggested to carefully review it to determine if there are any errors in it or not. This is because sometimes Python formatters are unable to work properly, due to technical errors, resulting in inaccurate output.

Conclusion

Ensuring a clear and readable Python code is important, so that everyone can go through it in the future to make any changes. That’s it is always essential to format the code when you are done writing. The best way to do this is by utilizing Python formatting tools. Simply enter the code, hit the button, and get a well-formatted version within seconds.

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