Understanding CamelCase, PascalCase, and snake_case in Python Variables

When writing Python code, choosing the right naming convention for variables is crucial for readability and maintainability. This article will explore three common naming styles: CamelCase, PascalCase, and snake_case. We'll also discuss Python’s preferred convention and best practices.

1. CamelCase

CamelCase (or lower camel case) is a naming convention where the first word starts with a lowercase letter, and each subsequent word starts with an uppercase letter.

Example:

myVariableName = "Camel case example"
userLoginData = "Another example"

While CamelCase is common in other programming languages like Java and JavaScript for variable names, it is not the preferred style in Python.

1. PascalCase

PascalCase (or upper camel case) is similar to CamelCase, but the first word is also capitalized.

Example:

MyVariableName = "Pascal case example"
UserLoginData = "Another example"

PascalCase is commonly used in Python for class names.

Example in Python classes:

class MyClass:
    pass

class UserProfile:
    pass

1. snake_case

snake_case is a convention where all letters are lowercase, and words are separated by underscores (_).

Example:

my_variable_name = "Snake case example"
user_login_data = "Another example"

In Python, snake_case is the recommended naming convention for variables and function names according to the PEP 8 style guide.

Example in function names:

def calculate_area(radius):
    return 3.14 * radius ** 2

Which One Should You Use in Python?

Python follows the PEP 8 guidelines, which recommend using:

snake_case for variables and function names

PascalCase for class names

Avoid CamelCase for variable and function names

Example Code Following Python Best Practices:

class EmployeeDetails:
    def __init__(self, first_name, last_name):
        self.first_name = first_name  # snake_case for variables
        self.last_name = last_name

    def get_full_name(self):  # snake_case for function names
        return f"{self.first_name} {self.last_name}"

Conclusion

Understanding and using the right naming convention is essential for writing clean, readable, and Python code. Stick to snake_case for variables and function names, and use PascalCase for class names. By following these best practices, you'll ensure consistency and readability in your Python projects.