Use pydoc for Generating Documentation in Python

Hi pythonistas!

 

Today we are diving into a hidden gem of Python: pydoc. This tool is often overlooked but can be incredibly useful for

generating documentation from your codes docstrings. pydoc is built into Python, so you don’t need to install anything extra.

It’s like having a mini documentation generator right in your pocket!

 

 

pydoc is a documentation generator and interactive help tool that comes bundled with Python.

It pulls from your docstrings and Python’s introspection features to generate:

Let’s say you have a simple file math_utils.py:

def add(a, b):
    """Add two numbers and return the result."""
    return a + b


def multiply(a, b):
    """Multiply two numbers."""
    return a * b

You can generate documentation with:

pydoc math_utils

Help on module math_utilis:

NAME
    math_utilis

FUNCTIONS
    add(a, b)
        Add two numbers and return the result.
    
    multiply(a, b)
        Multiply two numbers.

FILE
    /home/afsal/Desktop/experiments/math_utilis.py

(END)

To View in Web Run a simple documentation server:

pydoc -p 1234

Then go to http://localhost:1234 in your browser to browse documentation interactively.

 

pydoc -w math_utils

It generates math_utils.html in the current directory ready to share!

 

 

pydoc relies on your docstrings. So always document your modules, functions, and classes!

def divide(a, b):
    """
    Divide `a` by `b`.

    Parameters:
        a (float): Numerator
        b (float): Denominator

    Returns:
        float: Result of division

    Raises:
        ZeroDivisionError: If b is zero
    """
    return a / b

You can even inspect standard library modules

pydoc json

pydoc str.upper

If you're not using pydoc, you're missing out on free documentation magic. It's the quickest way to turn your Python code into readable documentation and it's already on your system.