[Python-ideas] Python Isn't Perfect: adding a 'gotchas' section to the tutorial

[Richard Prosser]

Although I love Python there are some aspects of the language design which
are disappointing and which can even lead to problems in some cases.

A classic example is a mutable default argument having the potential to
produce unexpected side-effects, as a consequence of the non-intuitive
scoping rules.

Another awkward 'feature' is the requirement for a trailing comma in
singleton tuples, due I believe to the use of expression parentheses rather
than (say) the use of special brackets like chevrons.

Something that I personally wish for is the ability to declare variable
types 'up front' but that facility is missing from Python.


This is an important issue, so I propose that the Python tutorial be
updated to highlight such problems. I would be willing to write a draft
section myself but obviously it would need to be reviewed.

I am not sure if this is the appropriate place to make such a comment but
it seems to be a good starting point. Any advice on making a more formal
proposal would be welcome.


Cheers,

Richard Prosser
PS Is it too late to fix such warts in version 3?
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