· 6 min read
Programming assignments are marked on more than "does it run". Most rubrics also reward correct output, readable code, sensible structure, testing and documentation.
1. Read the specification twice
Highlight the required inputs, outputs, file formats, function names and any restrictions (for example "do not use external libraries"). Losing marks for a wrong function name is painful and avoidable.
2. Plan in plain English first
Write the steps your program needs before writing any code:
- Read the CSV file
- Remove rows with missing values
- Calculate the average score per student
- Print the top five students
Each step often becomes one function.
3. Write small, named functions
Short functions with clear names (load_data, clean_rows, top_students) are easier to test, debug and explain in a viva than one long script.
4. Test as you go
Run your code after every small change. Use simple test cases where you know the right answer, and try edge cases: an empty list, a missing file, a negative number, unexpected text input.
5. Read the error message from the bottom up
Python's traceback tells you the error type and the line where it happened. Common ones:
- IndentationError: mixed tabs and spaces, or a missing indent after a colon.
- NameError: a typo in a variable name, or using a variable before it's defined.
- TypeError: combining incompatible types, like adding a string and an integer.
- IndexError / KeyError: accessing a list position or dictionary key that doesn't exist.
Adding print() statements to check values, or using a debugger in VS Code or PyCharm, will find most bugs quickly.
6. Make it readable
- Follow PEP 8 naming (snake_case for functions and variables).
- Add comments that explain why, not what.
- Include a short README explaining how to run the code.
7. Understand every line you submit
If you can't explain a line, you can't defend it in a viva. When using examples or help, make sure you understand and can rewrite the logic yourself.
Stuck on a bug or a tricky algorithm? Our programming support explains the logic step by step.