elle
(Elle)
#1
Conclusions
If you are a beginner or casual Python developer or an expert coming from a different
programming background, getting started with Python is generally pretty easy in that only
a couple of simple steps are required. To begin, you should install an appropriate Python
distribution, like Anaconda, to have a consistent Python environment available and also to
simplify the regular updating procedures.
With a distribution like Anaconda you have available the most important tools to
interactively practice data and financial analytics, like with IPython, or to develop larger
applications in a more traditional implement-test-debug fashion, like with Spyder. Of
course, you can add to the mix your favorite editor, which probably already has Python
syntax highlighting included. If you additionally are looking for syntax and code checking
capabilities, you might consider the built-in Spyder editor or any other Python-focused
editor available.
Appendix A introduces a number of best practices in the areas of syntax, documentation,
and unit testing. In terms of syntax, spaces and blank lines play an important role, as well
as the indentation of code blocks. When it comes to documentation, you should consider
including documentation strings in any function or class, providing background and help
for such things as input parameters, output, and possible errors, as well as usage examples.
Finally, you should include unit tests in your development process from the beginning (at
least for larger projects or those shared with a broader user base) and use dedicated tools
to simplify the test procedures.
