What is the symbol used to add comments in Python code?

In the realm of Python programming, comments play a important role in enhancing code readability, documentation, and collaboration among developers. They provide a means to include explanatory notes, describe the purpose of the code, document assumptions, and make the code easier to understand for both the original developer and future maintainers. The symbol used to add comments in Python code is the hash symbol (#).

When the Python interpreter encounters a hash symbol (#) in a line of code, it considers the rest of the line as a comment and ignores it during execution. This allows programmers to add comments without affecting the functionality of the program. Comments can be placed at the end of a line or on a separate line, and they can be used to explain individual lines of code or provide a broader overview of the code's purpose.

Here's an example that demonstrates the usage of comments in Python code:

python
# This is a comment explaining the purpose of the following line
x = 10  # Assigning the value 10 to the variable x

# This is another comment
y = 5  # Assigning the value 5 to the variable y

# Adding the values of x and y and storing the result in the variable sum
sum = x + y

# Printing the value of sum
print(sum)  # Output: 15

In the above example, the comments provide valuable insights into the code. They clarify the purpose of each line, making it easier for others to understand the code's functionality. Comments can also be used to temporarily disable a line of code without deleting it, which can be helpful during debugging or testing.

It is worth noting that comments should be used judiciously and kept up to date. Over-commenting can clutter the code and make it harder to read, while outdated comments can be misleading. Therefore, it's important to strike a balance and ensure that comments are accurate, concise, and relevant.

The symbol used to add comments in Python code is the hash symbol (#). Comments are essential for code readability, documentation, and collaboration. They provide explanatory notes, describe code functionality, and make the code easier to understand. Proper usage of comments enhances code maintainability and facilitates effective communication among developers.

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