The Zen of Python: 19 Rules Every Dev Should Know

The Zen of Python lays out 19 principles that help developers write code that’s clean, consistent, and easy to maintain.

August 18, 2025

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This week, we’re highlighting the Zen of Python: a list every Python developer should know and use.

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The Scoop

The 19 Zen Rules, One by One

Here’s the full Zen of Python by Tim Peters. Type import this in a Python shell to see it. Below, we’ve added context to help you apply each one in your work.

  1. Beautiful is better than ugly.
    Readable code is easier to maintain.

  2. Explicit is better than implicit.
    Avoid hidden behavior. Make things clear.

  3. Simple is better than complex.
    The simplest working solution is often the best.

  4. Complex is better than complicated.
    If complexity is needed, don’t let it become confusing.

  5. Flat is better than nested.
    Nested logic makes code harder to follow.

  6. Sparse is better than dense.
    Space improves clarity. Let your code breathe.

  7. Readability counts.
    If others can't read it, they can't improve it.

  8. Special cases aren’t special enough to break the rules.
    Stick with established patterns unless there’s no other option.

  9. Although practicality beats purity.
    Working code is the goal.

  10. Errors should never pass silently.
    Unless you're handling them directly.

  11. In the face of ambiguity, refuse the temptation to guess.
    Make intentions obvious. Don’t assume.

  12. There should be one—and preferably only one—obvious way to do it.
    Consistency helps teams move faster.

  13. Although that way may not be obvious at first unless you're Dutch.
    A nod to Python’s creator, Guido van Rossum.

  14. Now is better than never.
    Don’t wait forever to ship.

  15. Although never is often better than right now.
    Rushed code causes long-term problems.

  16. If the implementation is hard to explain, it’s a bad idea.
    Clarity reflects quality.

  17. If the implementation is easy to explain, it may be a good idea.
    Simple explanations often mean better code.

  18. Namespaces are one honking great idea. Let’s do more of those.
    Keep code organized and self-contained.

  19. (Intentionally left blank)
    The list ends on purpose with room to reflect.

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Advanced Skills

Using the Zen in Real Projects

Memorizing the rules helps. But applying them matters more. Start here:

Use a linter to catch violations early
Split large files into smaller, focused modules
Name variables and functions with clarity in mind
Avoid clever code that sacrifices readability

The Zen of Python helps you write code that lasts. When your code is clean and clear, it gets used, improved, and trusted.

That’s it for today.

Thanks for being part of the Hackr.io community. Keep coding. Keep learning. And keep improving the way you write Python.

The Hackr.io Team

P.S.

New here? Browse Python projects that follow the Zen and give you real practice.