I wrote a Python loop that checks a list of records and appends matching names to a new list. A colleague replaced it with a one-line comprehension. Both work, but the compressed version takes me longer to parse, especially once the condition grows. Is there a useful threshold for when a comprehension improves readability versus when an explicit loop is clearer? I'm learning the syntax, not trying to win a shortest-code contest.
Understanding why a loop solution works but feels harder to read than a list comprehension
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My rule is: if I have to pause and re-read the comprehension to understand it, use the loop. A comprehension should make the pattern obvious...
My rule is: if I have to pause and re-read the comprehension to understand it, use the loop. A comprehension should make the pattern obvious, not turn into a little riddle.
Same, though I’d say one condition is fine and two is where the loop starts winning. Once you need nested logic, the loop usually reads closer to the actual intent.
I’d push back a little on the “one condition” rule. If the transformation is simple and the list name is clear, a comprehension can still be...