Question 183 of 498
PCEP Practice Question: Data Types, Variables, Basic I/O and Operators
Which TWO of the following are valid Python variable names?
⚠ Common exam trap
Python Institute often tests the misconception that special characters like '$' or hyphens are allowed in variable names, or that names can start with digits, confusing Python's rules with those of other languages like JavaScript or shell scripting.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
_name
Python variable names must start with a letter or an underscore, and '_name' begins with an underscore, which is allowed. The rest of the name consists of letters and underscores, making it a valid identifier per Python's naming rules.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
_name
Why this is correct
Valid. Starts with underscore.
- ✗
2name
Why it's wrong here
Invalid. Starts with a digit.
- ✗
name$
Why it's wrong here
Invalid. Contains dollar sign.
- ✗
name-2
Why it's wrong here
Invalid. Contains hyphen.
- ✓
name_2
Why this is correct
Valid. Contains letters, underscore, and digit.
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Last reviewed: Jun 30, 2026
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.
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