[Python-ideas] PEP 8 update on line length

[Terry Reedy]

On 2/18/2019 11:37 PM, Simon wrote:
> Hello,
> 
> I'd like to propose an update to PEP8. Indeed, the 80 characters per 
> line guideline is, I feel, outdated.

Strictly speaking, PEP8 applies only to CPython stdlib code.  Please 
read the introduction.  Adapt it as you will for your code.

> I understand the need for it, back when monitors were small, and 
> everyone coded on terminals, but nowadays, I feel like that guideline is 
> more of a hinderance, and that it promotes poor code.

The majority of core developers, to whom PEP 8 applies, seem to disagree.

> Indeed, people abiding by this rule tend to choose shorter variable 
> names, reduce the amount of indentation, and other tricks to just keep 
> the character count under 80. I think a 100 or even 120 suggested 
> characters per line count is much more realistic by today's standards. 
> It still allow for the code to be completely displayed, even on just 
> half of a screen.

Do you every print on paper?  In tiny type?  Or sideways?

Anyway, 3 80-column windows side-by-side is really nice.  For instance, 
shell, code file, test file.


-- 
Terry Jan Reedy