The Right Place for Your Python Package's author
Python's __author__ dunder (double underscore) variable is a common way to document the author of a Python module or package. But where exactly should you put it? Let's break it down.
The Problem: Where Should __author__ Go?
You're working on a Python package and want to document who wrote it. You know about the __author__ variable, but where does it belong? Placing it in the wrong location can lead to confusion and less-than-ideal readability.
The Solution: A Clear and Consistent Approach
The best practice is to place the __author__ variable at the top of your module's main file. Here's a simplified example:
# my_module.py
__author__ = "John Doe"
__email__ = "[email protected]"
# Rest of your module's code
This strategy offers several advantages:
- Clear Visibility: Placing the variable at the top makes it instantly noticeable to anyone reading the code, fostering transparency about authorship.
- Consistency: It aligns with the standard practice of placing other important information like copyright notices and docstrings at the top of the module file.
- Readability: It avoids cluttering the code with author information scattered throughout multiple files.
Common Misconceptions:
-
__init__.py: While it's tempting to add__author__in the__init__.pyfile of your package, it's not the ideal location. The__init__.pyfile defines the package structure and imports modules, making it less about individual authorship and more about package organization. -
Multiple Files: Instead of adding
__author__to every single file within your package, using a single, central location (the main file) simplifies things.
Going Beyond __author__
While __author__ is a useful variable, it's not the only way to document authorship. Consider these options:
- Docstrings: Add a section about the author within the module's docstring. This approach can provide more detailed information, including contact details, contribution history, and even a short bio.
__version__: For larger projects, using__version__in the main module file helps track code revisions and releases.__copyright__: While often used for copyright information, it can also serve as a place to include author details or a company name.
Remember:
- The
__author__variable is a simple, informal way to indicate authorship. - For larger, more complex projects, consider using more comprehensive documentation tools like Sphinx or other documentation generators.
Conclusion
By consistently placing the __author__ variable at the top of your module's main file, you contribute to cleaner, more readable, and well-documented code. This fosters collaboration and transparency within your project.
