In Detail Python is a dynamic programming language, used in a wide range of domains by programmers who find it simple, yet powerful. From the earliest version 15 years ago to the current one, it has constantly evolved with productivity and code readability in mind. Even if you find writing Python code easy, writing code that is efficient and easy to maintain and reuse is not so straightforward. This book will show you how to do just that: it will show you how Python development should be done. Python expert Tarek Ziadé takes you on a practical tour of Python application development, beginning with setting up the best development environment, and along the way looking at agile methodologies in Python, and applying proven object-oriented principles to your design. What you will learn from this book? Set up a productive development environment Customize the Python prompt and deploy setuptools Write efficient syntax: iterators, generators, and decorators Build arguments by design and follow the best practices for working on API Build, release, and distribute your applications Write an application based on several eggs Distribute and deploy your application with zc.buildout Build and release your packages and set up a development cycle Manage your code with distributed version control and continuous integration Use an iterative and incremental approach to write software Practice Test-Driven Development Profile and optimize your code to speed up your programs Apply design patterns to your applications Approach This book is an authoritative exploration of Python best practices and applications of agile methodologies to Python, illustrated with practical, real-world examples. Who this book is written for? This book is for Python developers who are already building applications, but want to build better ones by applying best practices and new development techniques to their projects. The reader is expected to have a sound background in Python programming.