Documentation examples

Python documentation examples

Explore real-world Python documentation examples from popular projects. Learn proven patterns and best practices to improve your own documentation.

Documentation example categories

Discover different types of documentation with real examples

Function documentation

Document function parameters, return values, and behavior with clear examples and edge cases.

  • Parameter descriptions
  • Return value specs
  • Usage examples

Class documentation

Document class purpose, properties, methods, and inheritance patterns with practical examples.

  • Class overview
  • Property documentation
  • Method signatures

Module documentation

Document module purpose, exports, dependencies, and how different components work together.

  • Module overview
  • Exported members
  • Usage patterns

API documentation

Document API endpoints, request/response formats, authentication, and error handling.

  • Endpoint specifications
  • Request examples
  • Response schemas

README documentation

Create comprehensive README files with installation, usage, and contribution guidelines.

  • Project overview
  • Installation steps
  • Quick start guide

Inline comments

Write clear, helpful inline comments that explain complex logic and design decisions.

  • Logic explanations
  • Design decisions
  • TODO notes

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What makes great documentation

Key principles for effective Python documentation

Clear and concise

Good documentation gets straight to the point. Use simple language, avoid jargon when possible, and break complex concepts into digestible pieces.

Practical examples

Show real-world usage patterns with working code examples. Include both basic and advanced use cases to help developers of all skill levels.

Up-to-date content

Keep documentation synchronized with your code. Outdated docs are worse than no docs at all. Use automated tools to maintain consistency.

Searchable structure

Organize documentation logically with clear headings, consistent formatting, and proper indexing. Developers should find what they need quickly.

Looking for more guidance? Check out our comprehensive technical documentation best practices

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Where can I find good documentation examples?

Look at popular open-source projects, official language documentation, and well-maintained libraries in your programming language's ecosystem.

What makes a documentation example effective?

Effective examples are clear, concise, show real-world usage, include expected output, and demonstrate both common and edge cases.

How do I adapt examples to my project?

Review the structure and style of quality examples, then customize the approach to fit your project's complexity, audience, and specific requirements.

Related resources

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