PCEP Computer Programming and Python Fundamentals Practice Question
Which two of the following are correct ways to create a dictionary in Python? (Choose two.)
⚠ Common exam trap
The PCEP exam often tests the distinction between valid dictionary creation syntax and common mistakes like missing quotes around keys, using wrong brackets, or misunderstanding how the `dict()` constructor accepts arguments.
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
✓
my_dict = dict(a=1, b=2)
The `dict()` constructor accepts keyword arguments, where each keyword becomes a string key and its argument becomes the corresponding value. This creates `{'a': 1, 'b': 2}`. Option D is correct because it uses the standard literal syntax with colon-separated key-value pairs inside curly braces, which is the most common way to define a dictionary.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
my_dict = {a:1, b:2}
Why it's wrong here
Uses variables a and b as keys, not the strings 'a' and 'b'.
- ✓
my_dict = dict(a=1, b=2)
Why this is correct
Valid dict constructor.
- ✗
my_dict = dict(['a',1],['b',2])
Why it's wrong here
Invalid syntax; should be list of tuples or dict() with mapping.
- ✓
my_dict = {'a':1, 'b':2}
Why this is correct
Standard dictionary literal.
- ✗
my_dict = ["a":1, "b":2]
Why it's wrong here
List with colon syntax, invalid.
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Same concept, more angles
1 more way this is tested on PCEP
These questions test the same concept from different angles. Work through them to make sure you can recognise it however the exam phrases it.
Variation 1. Which TWO of the following are valid ways to create a dictionary with initial key-value pairs? (Select exactly 2)
medium- ✓ A.d = {'a': 1, 'b': 2}
- B.d = ('a'=1, 'b'=2)
- C.d = dict.fromkeys(['a', 'b', 'c']) # without value
- ✓ D.d = dict(a=1, b=2)
- E.d = dict(['a', 'b'], [1, 2])
Why A: It uses the standard literal syntax for creating a dictionary with initial key-value pairs. The curly braces `{}` with colon-separated keys and values are the most common and direct way to define a dictionary in Python.
JA
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.