Just Because You Can, Doesn't Mean You Should

Explore the pitfalls of overly complex Python library design in this 39-minute EuroPython conference talk. Delve into common antipatterns that can negatively impact flexibility, readability, and predictability for users. Examine specific examples in API design, including type checking, graph classes, resource management, and networking. Learn why convenience features may compromise overall usability and how to strike a balance between powerful functionality and maintainable code. Gain insights on creating more effective and user-friendly Python libraries that prioritize clarity and predictability over unnecessary complexity.

Introduction
Highlevel concepts
Type checking
What your function needs
Type dispatch
Graph class
Problem with API
Create a graph
Provide API
Guess Work
Resource Management
Filelike Objects
Path Libraries
Network
StatsD
Protocol Assembly
Networking
API Clients
HTTP Client
Request Header
Cookies
Convenience vs Compromise
Accessing Cookies
CSS Selection
General API Stuff
Why Not
Summary
Comments