Main functions, pythonic?

Question

I am just getting into Python coding and I'm wondering which is considered more pythonic? Example A: An obvious main method.

#!/usr/bin/env python -tt

import random

def dice_roll(num=1):
    for _ in range(num):
        print("Rolled a", random.randrange(1,7,1))

def main()
    random.seed()
    try:
        num = int(input("How many dice? "))
        dice_roll(num)
    except ValueError:
        print("Non-numeric Input")

if __name__ == '__main__':
    main()

or Example B: No main method.

#!/usr/bin/env python -tt

import random

def dice_roll(num=1):
    for _ in range(num):
        print("Rolled a", random.randrange(1,7,1))

if __name__ == '__main__':
    random.seed()
    try:
        num = int(input("How many dice? "))
        dice_roll(num)
    except ValueError:
        print("Non-numeric Input")

Any help/pointers would be appreciated?

Have a look at codereview.stackexchange.com

moinudin
– moinudin

2011-02-01 01:12:05 +00:00
Commented Feb 1, 2011 at 1:12 — moinudin
– moinudin, Commented Feb 1, 2011 at 1:12

Daniel DiPaolo · Accepted Answer · 2011-02-01 01:10:14Z

9

A is better because it allows you to import your module and execute the stuff in main without having to funk about with things unnecessarily. In fact, that might be a good reason to name it something better than main if it really represents an actual function of your module.

answered Feb 1, 2011 at 1:10

Daniel DiPaolo

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Comments

aviraldg · Accepted Answer · 2011-02-01 01:12:26Z

3

Well, when it comes to being Pythonic, I'd say both are equally Pythonic, because that refers to specific programming conventions, and doesn't (and shouldn't) govern the way you code.

However, people usually, use the first form, as it's easier to import and invoke the script from another one, then.

answered Feb 1, 2011 at 1:12

aviraldg

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Comments

Conceited Code · Accepted Answer · 2011-02-01 01:08:18Z

1

I would say example A is more Pythonic but they are both acceptable. Mainly because you can import main, but usually you would not need to do so.

answered Feb 1, 2011 at 1:08

Conceited Code

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