If you’re new to Python, you might be surprised to learn that it comes with its own philosophy. It’s called The Zen of Python, and it’s a short list of ideas that help you write code that’s clean, simple, and easy to understand.
To see it for yourself, open your Python editor and type:
import this
You’ll see 19 short sentences—called aphorisms—that describe how Python is meant to feel.
Why the Zen Matters (Even for Beginners)
When you’re just starting out, it’s easy to focus on getting your code to work. But writing code that’s readable and maintainable is just as important. The Zen of Python helps you:
- Keep things simple and clear
- Avoid confusing shortcuts
- Write code that’s easier to fix and improve
It’s like having a friendly guide whispering, “Try the simpler way.”
Zen Tips You’ll Actually Use
Here are a few beginner-friendly Zen ideas:
- “Simple is better than complex.” → Start with the easiest solution.
- “Readability counts.” → Write code that’s clear—even to someone new.
- “Errors should never pass silently.” → If something breaks, make sure you notice and fix it.
A Little Mystery: The Missing Aphorism
—it’s a bit of a riddle! a playful mystery or an invitation to discover your own guiding principle!
The Zen of Python contains 20 aphorisms, but only 19 are written down. That’s the official word from PEP 20. The 20th is left unwritten, often seen as a playful mystery or an invitation to discover your own guiding principle.
Your Turn: What’s Your 20th Aphorism?
Here’s a fun challenge: If you could add one more Zen rule, what would it be? Drop your idea in the comments below or share it with your coding group. It’s a great way to reflect on what matters most in your programming journey.
Final Thought
You don’t need to memorize all the Zen rules. Just remember: Python is designed to be friendly. If your code feels messy or confusing, try making it simpler and clearer.
