Organizing Your Python Code Across Multiple Files

When you’re splitting your Python functions into different files, it can get a bit tricky at first, but it’s definitely worth it for keeping your code clean! Here’s how you can go about it.

1. Basic Importing

You were on the right track with this:

import math_functions

Then calling the function like this:

math_functions.add(5, 3)

Each function in your math_functions.py file should be defined with their proper names, like:

def add(a, b): return a + b

If you’re still having issues, make sure both files are in the same directory, or else you might get errors about Python not being able to find the module.

2. Using the from Keyword

If you want to avoid writing math_functions. every time, you can use:

from math_functions import add

This will let you call add(5, 3) directly, which is much simpler! But, as you mentioned, watch out for naming conflicts. If you ever use another function called add from a different file, that could mess things up. You can always use aliases to avoid this using:

from math_functions import add as add_math

Then you would call it with add_math(5, 3).

3. Organizing Your Project Structure

If your files start getting messy, consider creating a project structure that makes imports easier. Here’s a common way to do it:

project_name/
    ├── main.py
    ├── math_functions.py
    └── other_functions.py
    

With that setup, your imports should work without any issues as long as both files are in the same folder.

4. Importing from Different Directories

If your files are in different directories, you might need to add an empty __init__.py file in those directories to tell Python they should be treated as packages. For example:

project/
    ├── main.py
    └── my_functions/
        ├── __init__.py
        ├── math_functions.py
        └── other_functions.py
    

Then you can import your functions like this:

from my_functions.math_functions import add

5. Summary

Experiment with both styles until you find what works for you! Remember, it’s all about keeping things organized, and you’ll get the hang of it in no time. Happy coding!