Understanding Python's __name__ and __main__
Python developers often struggle with the nuances of script execution and module imports. The built-in `__name__` and `__main__` attributes can help clarify how scripts are run and modules are imported. This feature allows for control over what parts of a file should execute when it is run directly versus when it is imported.
The `__name__` attribute determines whether a Python file is being used as a standalone script or an imported module. When run directly, the `__name__` variable is set to `'main'`. This distinction enables developers to control what parts of their code should execute in each scenario.