Optimising Python

Some great tips for optimising Python, courtesy of Ian Bicking:

Kata 19: an optimization anecdote demonstrates some neat techniques including use of the gc module to fine tune garbage collection.
Python Patterns—An Optimization Anecdote mainly uses functional programming techniques and the array module.
An Optimization Anecdote from Fredrik Lundh teaches us that the more time is spent by Python in pure C routines, the faster code will run (note that this does not necessarily imply rewriting Python code in C).
Python Performance Tips from 1996, most of which look like they are still valid.
Python optimization tips, which seem to be a bit more up to date.

Posted 28th October 2003 at 3:06 am

7 comments

Why bother optimising python? It'll never be as fast as Perl.
Randy Towers - 28th October 2003 22:17 - #
Why bother with Perl? It'll never be as fast as ASM.
Travis Watkins - 29th October 2003 13:06 - #
Assembly Language is too slow! Try Direct Neural Interface (You would need a more advanced Computer to get Optimum Performance; today's PCs simply can't cope.)
Kayode Okeyode - 29th October 2003 14:17 - #
Perl is better, it has more features.
Randy Towers - 29th October 2003 15:47 - #
Have you read Perl 6 Essentials? Perl 6 promises even more features! I was browsing the book the other day at a local bookstore and have just ordered my own copy.

Back to Simon's post, I don't know enough about the Python Engine to comment on how to optimise it but at one time, I considered learning Python and as a result I ended up with a mini-webpage of Python links; I will be adding some of Simon's link to it. It won't help me, but may help anyone considering Python.

Kayode Okeyode - 29th October 2003 16:26 - #
I wouldn't worry about Python, Kayode - it gives you RSI because you have to add in all that damn whitespace.
Randy Towers - 29th October 2003 17:54 - #
Simon, I think now would be a perfect time to institute an anti-trolling policy. :)
Lach - 30th October 2003 02:47 - #

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