Python has a built-in help function help() that provides an interactive guide to the official Python documentation. Even though I’ve been programming in Python for years, I only just started using this and it’s a real time-saver!

Interactive Mode

To enter interactive mode type help() from the Python shell:

Then you can enter either a keyword or object to search for. Want to learn about nonlocal? Just type nonlocal:

You can also look up information on objects, such as the str object, again by just typing str.

To exit the interactive mode type q.

Noninteractive Mode

You can also access help() directly from the Python shell.

To search for an object like str pass it in directly as help(str). To search for a keyword, like nonlocal, pass it in as a string so help('nonlocal').

Enjoy!



Want to improve your Python? I have a list of recommended Python books.