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PCEP Computer Programming and Python Fundamentals Practice Question

Which TWO of the following are valid variable names in Python?

⚠ Common exam trap

The PCEP exam often tests the rule that hyphens are invalid in variable names (tricking candidates who are used to languages like Lisp or CSS) and that keywords 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

total_sum

`total_sum` starts with a letter and contains only letters and underscores, which are allowed in Python identifiers. Python variable names must begin with a letter or underscore and can be followed by letters, digits, or underscores.

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.

  • 2nd_place

    Why it's wrong here

    Cannot start with digit.

  • total_sum

    Why this is correct

    Valid: letters and underscore.

  • for

    Why it's wrong here

    Reserved keyword.

  • _count

    Why this is correct

    Valid: starts with underscore.

About these practice questions

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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.