## Anti-Patterns to Avoid

```python
# Bad: Mutable default arguments
def append_to(item, items=[]):
    items.append(item)
    return items

# Good: Use None and create new list
def append_to(item, items=None):
    if items is None:
        items = []
    items.append(item)
    return items

# Bad: Checking type with type()
if type(obj) == list:
    process(obj)

# Good: Use isinstance
if isinstance(obj, list):
    process(obj)

# Bad: Comparing to None with ==
if value == None:
    process()

# Good: Use is
if value is None:
    process()

# Bad: from module import *
from os.path import *

# Good: Explicit imports
from os.path import join, exists

# Bad: Bare except
try:
    risky_operation()
except:
    pass

# Good: Specific exception
try:
    risky_operation()
except SpecificError as e:
    logger.error(f"Operation failed: {e}")
```

__Remember__: Python code should be readable, explicit, and follow the principle of least surprise. When in doubt, prioritize clarity over cleverness.

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