Python -O won’t magically make every script faster, but in the right workloads it’s a free win—here’s how to test it safely.

Why write ten lines of code when one will do? From magic variable swaps to high-speed data counting, these Python snippets will transform your code.

Russell Holly is a Managing Editor on the Commerce team at CNET. He works with all of CNET to assemble top recommendations as well as helping everyone find the best way to buy anything at the best ...