Python Naming Conventions for Packages: A Comprehensive Guide
Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational purposes only and does not intend to substitute financial, educational, health, nutritional, medical, legal, etc advice provided by a professional.
Python Naming Conventions for Packages: A Comprehensive Guide
When it comes to Python programming, one of the most important aspects to consider is naming conventions for packages. In this blog post, we will explore the inconsistencies around Python package naming and the new policy, as well as the reasons behind the use of dashes instead of underscores in package names.
Python Module, Package, and Distribution Names
Before diving into the specifics of naming conventions, let's first understand the difference between a module, a package, and a distribution in Python.
A module is a single file containing Python definitions and statements. It can be imported and used in other Python programs.
A package, on the other hand, is a way of organizing related modules into a directory hierarchy. It consists of multiple Python files and can also include sub-packages.
A distribution, also known as a package distribution, is a bundle of software that includes modules, packages, and other resources required to run a specific Python application.
Gentoo Package Names
For a long time, the dev-python category in Gentoo did not follow any specific naming policy. Usually, the ebuild went for what made it easier - the GitHub project name, if they happened to be using GitHub. However, this led to inconsistencies and confusion among developers.
To address these issues, Gentoo introduced a new policy for Python package naming. The new policy aims to provide clarity and uniformity in package names, making it easier for developers to understand and work with the packages.
Modern and Legacy PyPI Download URLs
PyPI, the Python Package Index, is the official repository for Python packages. When downloading packages from PyPI, it is essential to use the correct naming conventions.
In the past, Python packages on PyPI used underscores (_) in their names. However, with the introduction of PEP 508, which is the specification for dependency specifications in Python, it is now recommended to use dashes (-) instead of underscores.
Using dashes in package names helps to improve readability, especially when the package name consists of multiple words. It also aligns with the naming conventions followed by other programming languages.
pypi.eclass Comes into the Picture
pypi.eclass is an eclass in Gentoo that provides a set of functions and variables for working with Python packages. It plays a crucial role in enforcing the new Python package naming policy.
The pypi.eclass checks the package name against the naming conventions defined in the policy. If the name does not follow the conventions, it throws an error, ensuring that developers adhere to the correct naming practices.
Summary
In this blog post, we have explored the inconsistencies around Python package naming and the new policy introduced in Gentoo. We have also discussed the reasons behind using dashes instead of underscores in package names, along with the role of pypi.eclass in enforcing the naming conventions.
It is crucial for developers to follow the recommended naming conventions to maintain consistency and readability in Python package names. By adhering to these conventions, developers can contribute to a more organized and efficient Python ecosystem.
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Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational purposes only and does not intend to substitute financial, educational, health, nutritional, medical, legal, etc advice provided by a professional.
