PCEP Computer Programming and Python Fundamentals Practice Question
Which TWO of the following are valid variable names in Python? (Choose two.)
⚠ Common exam trap
The PCEP exam often tests the rule that variable names cannot start with a digit, and the fact that keywords are reserved, to trap candidates who overlook these fundamental syntax rules.
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_2
Variable names in Python must start with a letter or underscore, and can contain letters, digits, and underscores. 'my_var_2' starts with a lowercase letter and uses only underscores and digits, making it a valid identifier.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
1st_value
Why it's wrong here
Starts with a digit.
- ✓
my_var_2
Why this is correct
Valid: letters, digits, underscores, not starting with digit.
- ✗
user@name
Why it's wrong here
Special character '@' is not allowed.
- ✓
_private
Why this is correct
Valid: underscore is allowed at the start.
- ✗
for
Why it's wrong here
Reserved keyword.
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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.