Supporting a Self-Documenting Code Approach in Python
Supporting a Self-Documenting Code Approach in Python
A well-designed program should be largely self-documenting, with comments used only where the code itself might be unclear. Python’s philosophy, as captured in the Zen of Python, reinforces this approach: Explicit is better than implicit and Readability counts. Instead of relying on excessive comments, Python encourages clear syntax, descriptive naming, and built-in documentation mechanisms.
Python’s regularity—its structured and predictable design—reduces the need for excessive comments. Regularity ensures that language constructs behave consistently, making it easier to read and maintain code without additional explanations. Features like indentation-based block structures, explicit naming conventions, and the lack of unnecessary syntax contribute to natural readability. Unlike languages with irregular structures requiring more explanations, Python’s design makes the intent clear through structure alone.
While comments should be minimal, strategic documentation enhances clarity. Python provides built-in mechanisms such as docstrings for function and module documentation, and type hints for readability and maintainability. These serve as in-code documentation without cluttering logic with unnecessary comments. Additionally, external documentation, like READMEs, plays a crucial role in explaining project structure and overall functionality.
For example:
from typing import List
def calculate_average(numbers: List[float]) -> float:
"""Calculate and return the average of a list of numbers."""
return sum(numbers) / len(numbers) if numbers else 0.0
This function uses a docstring to describe its purpose and type hints to clarify expected inputs and outputs, reducing the need for additional comments.
Although comments should be used sparingly, there are cases where they are beneficial, such as:
Documenting Workarounds: When dealing with unavoidable technical constraints or temporary fixes.
Clarifying Complex Business Logic: Explaining non-intuitive rules or calculations required by business processes.
A self-documenting approach aligns with Python’s emphasis on clarity and simplicity. By leveraging language features like regularity, docstrings, and type hints, developers can maintain clean, readable, and maintainable code without excessive commenting. Comments should complement—not compensate for—poorly written code.
Baaren, E. van. (2023, March 12). The Zen of Python (PEP-20 Easter egg) • python land tips & tricks. Python Land. https://python.land/the-zen-of-python
Louden, K. C., & Lambert, K. A. (2011). Programming Languages: Principles and Practice (3rd ed.). San Jose State University & Washington and Lee University.