PCEP Computer Programming and Python Fundamentals Practice Question
According to PEP 8, which of the following is the recommended way to name a constant representing the maximum number of retries?
⚠ Common exam trap
The PCEP exam often tests the distinction between variable naming conventions (snake_case for variables vs. UPPER_CASE for constants) and the rule that identifiers cannot start with a digit, leading candidates to confuse camelCase or invalid names with PEP 8 recommendations.
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
✓
MAX_RETRIES
PEP 8 (Python Enhancement Proposal 8) recommends that constants be named using uppercase letters with underscores separating words, i.e., `MAX_RETRIES`. This convention distinguishes constants from regular variables, which use lowercase with underscores, and helps improve code readability and maintainability.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
MAX_RETRIES
Why this is correct
PEP 8 specifies that constants use all-uppercase letters with underscores separating words, so MAX_RETRIES matches the required naming convention for a maximum retries constant. Lowercase or camelCase forms are reserved for variables, functions and classes.
- ✗
max_retries
Why it's wrong here
PEP 8 reserves lowercase with underscores for variables and functions; constants use all uppercase letters, so MAX_RETRIES is required. The lowercase form is tempting because it is valid Python and matches ordinary variable naming, which is exactly when it would be the right style.
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1st_retry_limit
Why it's wrong here
Cannot start with a digit.
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maxRetries
Why it's wrong here
CamelCase is for classes, not constants.
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