Python pass keyword

The pass keyword in Python is a placeholder statement used when a block of code is required syntactically but no action is needed. It allows you to write empty code blocks without causing an error, serving as a way to “do nothing.”

Example 

def my_function():

    pass  # Placeholder for future implementation

print("This code runs without error!")

Output:

This code runs without error!

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Syntax

pass

The pass statement does nothing and is used to fill in empty blocks of code.

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Why Use pass?

1. Code Stub Creation: Write skeleton code where the implementation will be added later.
2. Avoid Syntax Errors: Prevent errors when an empty code block is required.
3. Placeholders in Loops or Conditionals: Temporarily skip implementation of certain sections of logic.

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Common Examples

1. Empty Function

def future_function():

    pass  # Placeholder for future implementation

Why? To define a function structure without implementing it yet.

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2. Empty Class

class PlaceholderClass:

    pass  # No methods or attributes for now

Why? To create a class as a placeholder for future development.

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3. Placeholder in Loops

for i in range(5):

    pass  # Skip implementation for now

Why? To write a loop without executing any code temporarily.

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4. Skipping Code in Conditionals

x = 10

if x > 0:

    pass  # Logic to handle positive numbers will be added later

else:

    print("x is not positive")

Output:

x is not positive

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5. As a Temporary Placeholder

try:

    # Code that might raise an exception

    pass  # Exception handling will be added later

except Exception as e:

    print(f"Error: {e}")