Exception handling is crucial for building robust Python applications. Here are key best practices to follow:

1. Use Specific Exception Types

Avoid catching generic exceptions like Exception or BaseException. Instead, target specific exceptions to handle errors accurately.

specific_exception
For example: ```python try: # Code that may raise an error except FileNotFoundError: # Handle file not found except ValueError: # Handle invalid value ```

2. Always Use finally for Cleanup

Ensure resources are released properly using finally, regardless of whether an exception occurs.

finally_block
```python try: file = open("data.txt") # Process file finally: file.close() ```

3. Log Exceptions, Don’t Ignore Them

Use logging to record errors instead of silent except blocks.

logging_exceptions
```python import logging try: # Code that may fail except Exception as e: logging.error("An error occurred: %s", e) ```

4. Raise Custom Exceptions for Clarity

Define custom exceptions to make error handling more readable and maintainable.

custom_exceptions
```python class InvalidInputError(Exception): pass ```

5. Keep except Blocks Minimal

Avoid placing too much logic in except blocks. Use them only for recovery or logging.

minimal_except

For further reading, check our Python Exception Handling Guide for detailed examples.