PCEP Computer Programming and Python Fundamentals Practice Question
Which TWO of the following are valid Python variable names? (Choose two.)
⚠ Common exam trap
Python Institute often tests the rule that hyphens are invalid in variable names (tricking candidates who confuse them with underscores) and that keywords like 'class' cannot be used as identifiers, even though they look like valid names.
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_var
(my_var) is correct because Python variable names can contain letters, digits, and underscores, but must not start with a digit. 'my_var' follows all naming rules: it starts with a letter, uses an underscore, and contains no invalid characters.
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-var
Why it's wrong here
Hyphen not allowed.
- ✓
my_var
Why this is correct
Valid.
- ✗
2nd_place
Why it's wrong here
Starts with digit.
- ✓
_count
Why this is correct
Valid.
- ✗
class
Why it's wrong here
Reserved keyword.
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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.