PCEP Practice Question: Functions, Tuples, Dictionaries and Exceptions
Which THREE of the following are valid ways to handle an exception in Python?
⚠ Common exam trap
Python Institute often tests the rule that an `else` block cannot exist without at least one `except` block, and that a `finally` block must always be attached to a `try` block, leading candidates to mistakenly think these standalone constructs are valid.
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
✓
Using a `try` block with both `except` and `finally` blocks.
Python's exception handling allows a `try` block to be followed by both `except` and `finally` blocks. The `except` block catches specific exceptions, while the `finally` block always executes (for cleanup), regardless of whether an exception occurred. This combination is fully valid and commonly used for robust resource management.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
Using a `try` block with both `except` and `finally` blocks.
Why this is correct
Combination is valid.
- ✗
Using a `finally` block without a `try` block.
Why it's wrong here
`finally` must be associated with a `try`.
- ✗
Using a `try` block with an `else` block but no `except` block.
Why it's wrong here
`else` requires an `except` block.
- ✓
Using a `try` block with a `finally` block.
Why this is correct
`finally` always executes.
- ✓
Using a `try` block with one or more `except` blocks.
Why this is correct
Standard structure.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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.