Question 161 of 498
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.
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Last reviewed: Jul 4, 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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