Understanding Python Docstrings

Python docstrings are a crucial part of writing clean, understandable, and maintainable code. They serve as documentation for your functions, classes, and modules.

What is a Docstring?

• Docstring: A special type of comment in Python that describes what a function, class, or module does.
• It is a string that is the first statement in a function, class, or module and is enclosed in triple quotes (""" or ''').

Why Use Docstrings?

• Documentation: They provide a way to document your code directly.
• Help Functionality: Python’s built-in help() function can retrieve docstrings, making it easier to understand how to use code.

How to Write a Docstring

• Place the docstring immediately under the function or class header.
• Use clear and concise language to explain what the function or class does, its parameters, and its return values.

Example of a Function Docstring

def add(a, b):
    """
    Adds two numbers together.

    Parameters:
    a (int): The first number.
    b (int): The second number.

    Returns:
    int: The sum of a and b.
    """
    return a + b

Example of a Class Docstring

class Dog:
    """
    A simple representation of a dog.

    Attributes:
    name (str): The dog's name.
    age (int): The dog's age in years.
    """

    def __init__(self, name, age):
        self.name = name
        self.age = age

Key Points to Remember

• Triple Quotes: Always use triple quotes for docstrings, which allows for multi-line descriptions.
• Formatting: Be clear and structured. Consider using sections like Parameters and Returns for functions.
• Accessing Docstrings: You can access a function’s docstring with the .__doc__ attribute or by using the help() function.

Accessing Docstring Example

print(add.__doc__)
help(add)

Conclusion

Docstrings are an essential part of writing Python code that is easy to understand and maintain. They help both the original developer and others who may work with the code later. Always remember to write clear and informative docstrings for your functions and classes!