10 Common Python Errors Beginners Make (And How to Fix Them)

Python is one of the easiest programming languages for beginners, but even then, new learners often face errors that can be confusing or frustrating. In this article, we’ll cover 10 of the most common Python errors and show you how to fix them step-by-step.

1. SyntaxError: Unexpected EOF While Parsing

Why it happens: This usually occurs when you've missed a closing bracket, quote, or colon.
Fix: Double-check for incomplete statements like:

if x > 5

    print("X is greater")  # Missing colon

2. IndentationError: Expected an Indented Block

Why it happens: Python relies on indentation to define code blocks.
Fix: Make sure your code is properly indented using spaces or tabs consistently.

def greet():

print("Hello")  # Should be indented

3. NameError: Name ‘x’ is Not Defined

Why it happens: You're using a variable before defining it.
Fix: Make sure all variables are defined before use:

print(x)  # x is not defined yet

4. TypeError: Unsupported Operand Type(s)

Why it happens: You're performing an invalid operation on mismatched data types.
Fix: Use type conversion where necessary:

"Age: " + 20  # Error

"Age: " + str(20)  # Correct

5. ZeroDivisionError: Division by Zero

Why it happens: You're dividing a number by 0.
Fix: Always check your denominator before division:

if b != 0:

    print(a / b)

6. AttributeError: ‘List’ Object Has No Attribute ‘X’

Why it happens: You're calling a method that doesn’t exist on that object.
Fix: Check the object type and its available methods:

my_list = [1, 2, 3]

my_list.upper()  # Error: lists don’t have 'upper()'

7. ValueError: Invalid Literal for int()

Why it happens: You're trying to convert a non-numeric string into an integer.
Fix: Ensure the string is numeric before using int():

int("abc")  # Error

int("123")  # Valid

8. IndexError: List Index Out of Range

Why it happens: You’re accessing a position in a list that doesn’t exist.
Fix: Use len() to check list size before accessing:

my_list = [10, 20, 30]

print(my_list[5])  # Error

9. ModuleNotFoundError: No Module Named 'X'

Why it happens: The required Python module is not installed.
Fix: Use pip to install it:

pip install module_name

10. KeyboardInterrupt

Why it happens: You manually stop a running program using Ctrl+C.
Fix: None needed — just be aware of what you’re doing while testing scripts.

Bonus Tips for Beginners

• Always read the full error message — it tells you the line and error type
• Use an IDE like VS Code or PyCharm to catch errors early
• Test small pieces of code before writing a large program

Conclusion

Don’t be discouraged by errors — even expert developers face them daily. The key is to understand the problem and learn how to fix it. By knowing these 10 common Python errors, you’ll be more confident and productive as you continue your Python journey.

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