Python Trick: Using dataclasses with field(default_factory=...)

Python's dataclasses module simplifies the creation of classes used for storing data. While most people know about basic usage, there’s a less-known feature involving field(default_factory=...) that can be incredibly useful for handling default values in mutable types.

How It Works: When defining a dataclass, you might want to use a mutable default value, such as a list or a dictionary. Using a mutable default directly can lead to unexpected behavior due to the way default arguments are shared across instances. The default_factory function provides a clean way to handle mutable defaults.

Why It’s Cool: The default_factory feature is invaluable for avoiding common issues with mutable default arguments. It helps ensure that each instance of a dataclass has its own default value, making your code more predictable and avoiding subtle bugs related to shared state.

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