PCEP Computer Programming and Python Fundamentals Practice Question
A Python program needs to store the integer value 42 in a variable named count. Which line of code correctly assigns this value?
⚠ Common exam trap
Watch out — candidates often confuse the assignment operator = with the equality operator ==, which performs a comparison rather than storing a value.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
count = 42
The assignment operator = stores a value in a variable. In this scenario, count = 42 correctly binds the name count to the integer 42. The other options either compare, reverse the assignment, or use an operator that is not valid as a standalone statement.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
count == 42
Why it's wrong here
This uses the equality comparison operator ==, which checks if count already equals 42 and returns a Boolean, but does not assign the value. It would raise a NameError if count is undefined. The scenario requires assignment, not comparison.
- ✗
42 = count
Why it's wrong here
This attempts to assign the value of count to the literal 42, which is invalid because the left side of an assignment must be a target like a variable name, not a literal. Python raises a SyntaxError. It reverses the intended direction of assignment.
- ✓
count = 42
Why this is correct
The single equals sign = is the assignment operator in Python. It binds the name count to the integer object 42. This is the standard and correct way to store a value in a variable, satisfying the requirement exactly.
- ✗
count := 42
Why it's wrong here
The walrus operator := is used for assignment expressions within larger expressions, not as a standalone statement. Using it alone like this is a syntax error. It is not the correct way to assign a variable in a simple statement.
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Written and reviewed by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
Last reviewed September 2026 · checked against the official Python Institute exam blueprint
This PCEP practice question is part of Courseiva's free Python Institute certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the PCEP exam.