Solving Indentation Error in Python Code: A Beginner’s Guide

Learn how to efficiently troubleshoot the `Indentation Error` in Python when coding in the Spyder IDE. This comprehensive guide breaks down the error's causes and provides simple solutions for beginners.
---

Visit these links for original content and any more details, such as alternate solutions, latest updates/developments on topic, comments, revision history etc. For example, the original title of the Question was: Indentation error when using indents, not when continuing on the same line

If anything seems off to you, please feel free to write me at vlogize [AT] gmail [DOT] com.
---
Understanding the Indentation Error in Python

If you're diving into Python programming, you might encounter an annoying issue known as the Indentation Error. This type of error can be puzzling, especially for beginners who are just starting to understand Python's syntax requirements.

What is an Indentation Error?

In Python, indentation is used to define the scope of loops, functions, and conditions. When your code segment does not follow the required indentation, Python raises an IndentationError. This error typically occurs when the interpreter expects an indented block of code after a statement like if, for, or when defining functions.

The Problem: Why Am I Getting Indentation Errors?

Many newcomers to Python face the following situation: their code runs without issues when written all in one line, but it fails miserably with an indentation error when they try to break it into multiple lines.

Example of the Error

Consider the following code snippet:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

If you run the above code and receive an error like:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

You may wonder why it fails despite having the correct syntax.

Common Causes

Mixing Spaces and Tabs: Occasionally, users employ both tabs and spaces for indentation, which can lead to confusion. Python does not accept this mixed usage as valid.

Running Code Incorrectly: Using your IDE (like Spyder) incorrectly can also contribute to the problem.

Failure to Indent: Not indenting after control statements (like if, for, def, etc.) can result in an indentation error.

The Solution: Steps to Fix the Indentation Error

After experiencing these frustrating errors, I discovered the primary solution that resolved my issue. Here’s how to effectively tackle the problem:

1. Ensure Consistent Indentation

Stick to one method of indentation throughout your code:

Use 4 spaces or a single tab—but not both. The Python style guide recommends using 4 spaces.

2. Use the Correct Ide Commands

It turns out, my mistake was in how I was executing the code. Here’s what to do:

Instead of pressing F9, which executes a single line, try running the whole cell:

Use Ctrl + Return to run the cell in Spyder. This ensures the entire block, with its indentation, is evaluated together.

3. Check for Unintended Mix-Ups

If you're using auto-indentation features, make sure to verify that the settings in your IDE are configured to use either tabs or spaces consistently. You can usually find these settings in the preferences or options menu.

4. Verify Your Code After Each Change

After making corrections:

Run your code incrementally.

Save periodically to avoid losing changes in case of more errors.

Conclusion

The Indentation Error can be resolved with some careful attention to detail. By ensuring uniform indentation and adjusting how you run your code, you can prevent these frustrating errors.

Remember, encountering errors is part of the learning process in programming. So, don’t be discouraged! With practice, you will soon be able to write clear and efficient Python code.

A Final Note of Thanks

Thanks to the support of the Python community and specific individuals, such as the legendary Carlos Cordoba, many of us can navigate these tricky errors more smoothly. If this guide helps even one fellow beginner avoid the same pitfalls, then it has served its purpose!