# Python Coding

> Comprehensive Python development guidance covering best practices, coding patterns, testing strategies, and code quality standards.

- Skill: `howmany-zeta/python-coding` (Agent Skill, multi-file: 5 files)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add howmany-zeta/python-coding`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/howmany-zeta/python-coding/raw
- Safety review: pending
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: AI & ML
- Author: Howmany-Zeta (https://skillmd.com/u/howmany-zeta)
- Updated: 2026-09-17
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/howmany-zeta/python-coding

---


# Python Coding Skill

This skill provides comprehensive guidance for Python development, including best practices, coding patterns, testing strategies, and code quality standards.

## When to Use This Skill

Activate this skill when:
- Writing new Python code or modules
- Refactoring existing Python code
- Setting up Python project structure
- Writing or improving unit tests
- Debugging Python applications
- Reviewing code for best practices

## Key Principles

### PEP 8 Compliance
Follow Python's official style guide for consistent, readable code:
- Use 4 spaces for indentation
- Limit lines to 88 characters (Black formatter default)
- Use snake_case for functions and variables
- Use PascalCase for class names
- Add blank lines to separate logical sections

### Type Hints
Use type annotations for better code clarity and IDE support:
```python
def process_data(items: list[str], limit: int = 10) -> dict[str, int]:
    ...
```

### Testing Practices
- Write tests alongside code using pytest
- Aim for high test coverage on critical paths
- Use fixtures for reusable test setup
- Mock external dependencies appropriately

## Quick Reference

### Common Patterns

| Pattern | Use Case |
|---------|----------|
| Context Manager | Resource management (files, connections) |
| Dataclass | Simple data containers |
| Protocol | Structural subtyping / duck typing |
| Generator | Memory-efficient iteration |

### Essential Commands

```bash
# Validate Python syntax
python -m py_compile your_file.py

# Run tests
pytest test_file.py -v

# Type checking
mypy your_module/

# Linting
ruff check your_module/
```

## Resources

See `references/best-practices.md` for detailed guidelines and `examples/code-patterns.py` for code samples.