How to Prevent Errors When Running Functions

Making sure your functions work smoothly is really important. Here are some simple ways to avoid mistakes:

1. Check Input First: Before using any data, make sure it’s in the right format or range. For example, if a function needs a positive number, check that the input is correct first.

   def calculate_square_root(x):
       if x < 0:
           raise ValueError("Input must be a non-negative integer.")
       return x ** 0.5
   

2. Use Default Values: You can set default options for your function. This helps when someone forgets to give an input. This also makes your function more flexible.

   def greet(name="Guest"):
       return f"Hello, {name}!"
   

3. Handle Errors Smoothly: Use try-except blocks to catch mistakes. This way, your program won’t crash suddenly, and you can show useful error messages.

   try:
       result = calculate_square_root(-1)
   except ValueError as e:
       print(f"Error: {e}")
   

4. Keep Track of Errors: Instead of just showing errors on the screen, write them down in a log. This helps you find and fix problems later.

By using these simple strategies, you can cut down on mistakes and make your functions stronger!