Python assert Statement


Python assert function confirms an expression. If the expression fails, the script will exit with an error.

>>> x = 3
>>> assert(x>2)


>>> assert(x<2)
Traceback (most recent call last):
  File "", line 1, in 
AssertionError

Using assert for preventive programming:
def cm2inch(h):
	assert(h>=0), "height must be positive";
	return(h*0.3937);


>>> cm2inch(2)
0.7874

>>> cm2inch(-2)
Traceback (most recent call last):
  File "", line 1, in 
  File "", line 1, in 
AssertionError: height must be positive