Mission Reports

News, tips and learning from the world of backend software development.

Spaceship engine room where list comprehensions are used to power the ship’s core reactor.

List, Dict, Set and Generator Comprehensions in Python

24 June 2025

This guide breaks down list, dict, set, and generator comprehensions — with examples, performance tips, and when not to use them.

Spaceship flying through galaxy

Manage Python Projects With uv

11 June 2025

From managing dependencies to running scripts, uv is changing the way we handle Python projects. This guide breaks down how to use uv for lightning-fast, reliable Python development.

Spaceship in space capturing asteroids like a generator

Exploring Generators in Python — From Basics to Advanced

2 June 2025

From yield to .send(), learn everything you need to know about Python generators — including generator expressions, memory tips, and use cases.

Space themed visualization of iteration

Python Iterators and Iterables: A Hands-On Guide

26 May 2025

This practical guide explores how Python handles iteration under the hood. From built-in sequences to custom iterators and memory-efficient generators.

Space man capturing floating CSV files

The Ultimate Guide to Handling CSV Files in Python

19 May 2025

Learn how to confidently read, write, and modify CSV files in Python using the built-in csv module.

Spaceship flying past robots labelled as lambda functions

How to Use Lambda Functions in Python

29 April 2025

Learn how to use lambda functions in Python effectively, from syntax and higher-order functions to debugging tips and best practices.

Spaceships of different sizes sorted by size

Everything You Need to Know About Sorting in Python

8 April 2025

Whether you’re wrangling a simple list or a complex set of objects, this guide will teach you how to sort data in Python like a pro.

Spaceship looking out into space

Mastering Python Lists As A Beginner

25 February 2025

Unlock the power of Python lists. Learn to create, index, slice, update, and manipulate lists for efficient coding.

Spaceship deck

Python Strings Explained: Learn the Fundamentals of this Core Data Type

10 February 2025

Strings in Python are a fundamental data type. Learn how to define and work with them effectively in this ultimate beginner guide.

Planet in space

Premature Abstraction in Software: More Harm than Good

27 January 2025

Abstraction simplifies complex code but it can backfire when used too soon. Learn what abstraction is, when to use it, and how to avoid the trap of premature abstraction.

Computer screen showing programming code

Should you be testing implementation details?

10 January 2025

Should your tests focus on how your system works or what it delivers? Testing isn't just about writing code to catch bugs.

Spaceship deck

Breaking the DRY Spell: Why Repetition Isn't Always the Enemy

27 December 2024

Clean, elegant design or an over abstracted, confusing mess? DRY code can be all or none of these things. Like most topics, some nuance in the discussion is probably needed.