Clean Code in Python: Best Practices vs. Common Mistakes

1. Variable Naming

Bad Practice:

x = 10
y = 20
z = x + y

Good Practice:

length = 10
width = 20
area = length * width

Explanation: Descriptive variable names improve code readability.

2. Function Length

Bad Practice:

def process_data(data):
    # Do multiple things here
    cleaned_data = clean_data(data)
    validated_data = validate_data(cleaned_data)
    transformed_data = transform_data(validated_data)
    saved_data = save_data(transformed_data)
    return saved_data

Good Practice:

def process_data(data):
    cleaned_data = clean_data(data)
    validated_data = validate_data(cleaned_data)
    return save_data(transform_data(validated_data))

Explanation: Keep functions short and focused on one task to maintain clarity.