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Python Double Unders

Posted by lukej
lukej
34,222 Points

Understanding Double Unders __main__

Can someone with experience give me a hint on this? I just want to know whether or not it is considered good practice or standard to add a main() function and dunder check to your source code files when designing a python package (multiple files that work together):

Edit: And what is the standard code order here?

  1. import statements
  2. class and function definitions
  3. main function
  4. dunder check
def some_module_function():
  pass

def main():
  # main code goes here
  some_module_function()

if __name__== "__main__":
  main()

Or can I just have my 'main code' bare in the file?

2 Answers

Alexander Davison
Alexander Davison
65,469 Points

I personally like creating a function called main and calling it from the if __name__ == '__main__' bit. Some people have other preferences. It isn't 100% standardized, but most people prefer having a main function.

And yes, usually the structure of a program goes as follows:

  • Imports
  • Classes
  • Functions
  • Main function
  • if __name__ == '__main__'
lukej
lukej
34,222 Points
lukej
lukej
34,222 Points

@Alexander Davison Thank you for the quick reply. Really appreciate it.

Alexander Davison
Alexander Davison
65,469 Points

No problem :+1: