Python Type Annotation Syntax
Type annotations in Python are a way to specify the expected types of variables, function parameters, and return values. They are optional and primarily used for documentation, readability, and static analysis tools. The syntax for type annotations involves specifying the variable name followed by a colon and the desired type. For example, `x: int` indicates that the variable `x` should be of type integer. Additionally, function annotations are specified by placing the type annotation after the parameter name and a “→” followed by the return type. For instance, `def add(x: int, y: int) → int:` specifies a function named `add` that takes two integer parameters and returns an integer. Type annotations can also be more complex, involving union types, optional types, and generics, allowing for precise specification of types in Python code. While Python itself does not enforce type annotations at runtime, they can be checked using static analysis tools like MyPy or integrated development environments with type checking capabilities, enhancing code quality and maintainability.