How to Continue Python Code on the Next Line?

In Python, you can continue code on the next line using the backslash (\) character as a line continuation symbol or by enclosing the code in parentheses (), braces {}, or brackets []. Here’s an example of both approaches:

Using the backslash character:

total = 10 + 20 + \
        30 + 40 + \
        50

print(total)  # Output: 150

In this example, the backslash character \ is used to indicate that the code continues on the next line. The indentation is important for maintaining the correct structure and readability.

Using parentheses, braces, or brackets:

total = (10 + 20 +
         30 + 40 +
         50)

print(total)  # Output: 150

In this example, the code is enclosed within parentheses (), but you can also use braces {} or brackets [] to achieve the same result. The code is spread across multiple lines without the need for explicit line continuation.

Both approaches allow you to break long lines of code into multiple lines, improving readability. Note that the line continuation symbol (\) or the use of parentheses, braces, or brackets should be placed at the end of the line, just before the line break.

Additionally, in certain cases, Python automatically allows line continuation, such as when the line ends with an unclosed parenthesis, brace, or bracket. For example:

numbers = [
    1, 2, 3,
    4, 5, 6,
    7, 8, 9,
]

print(numbers)  # Output: [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9]

In this case, the line continuation is implicit because the list definition is not closed with a closing bracket on the same line, allowing Python to continue the code on the next line.

Remember to use line continuation judiciously and maintain code readability by using appropriate indentation and structure.