Package Discovery and __init__.py
When you work with packages in Python, the presence or absence of an __init__.py file in a directory determines how Python treats that directory during import. Historically, any directory intended to be a package must contain an __init__.py file. This file marks the directory as a Python package and enables the interpreter to import modules from it.
Python 3.3 and later introduced implicit namespace packages, which allow you to create packages without an __init__.py file. If you omit __init__.py, Python still recognizes the directory as a package, but only for the purpose of grouping subpackages and modules across multiple locations on the filesystem. This is useful for large projects or plugin systems. However, explicit packages—those with an __init__.py—are still the most common and compatible approach, ensuring clear package boundaries and predictable import behavior.
Choosing between implicit and explicit packages impacts how Python discovers and loads your code:
- Explicit packages are generally preferred for most projects;
- They work reliably with standard tools;
- They make your package structure clear to both Python and other developers.
Kiitos palautteestasi!
Kysy tekoälyä
Kysy tekoälyä
Kysy mitä tahansa tai kokeile jotakin ehdotetuista kysymyksistä aloittaaksesi keskustelumme
Can you explain the main differences between explicit and implicit packages?
When should I use an explicit package versus a namespace package?
What happens if I forget to include an `__init__.py` file in my package?
Mahtavaa!
Completion arvosana parantunut arvoon 7.14Package Discovery and __init__.py
Pyyhkäise näyttääksesi valikon
When you work with packages in Python, the presence or absence of an __init__.py file in a directory determines how Python treats that directory during import. Historically, any directory intended to be a package must contain an __init__.py file. This file marks the directory as a Python package and enables the interpreter to import modules from it.
Python 3.3 and later introduced implicit namespace packages, which allow you to create packages without an __init__.py file. If you omit __init__.py, Python still recognizes the directory as a package, but only for the purpose of grouping subpackages and modules across multiple locations on the filesystem. This is useful for large projects or plugin systems. However, explicit packages—those with an __init__.py—are still the most common and compatible approach, ensuring clear package boundaries and predictable import behavior.
Choosing between implicit and explicit packages impacts how Python discovers and loads your code:
- Explicit packages are generally preferred for most projects;
- They work reliably with standard tools;
- They make your package structure clear to both Python and other developers.
Kiitos palautteestasi!
