Fix Python IndentationError: unexpected indent (2025 Guide)

Posted on: March 23, 2025

Encountered an "IndentationError: unexpected indent" in Python? This error occurs when Python detects inconsistent or unexpected indentation in your code. Let’s fix it fast in this 2025 guide!

What Causes "IndentationError: unexpected indent"?

Python relies on indentation to define code blocks, unlike other languages that use braces. An unexpected indent happens when the indentation doesn’t align with Python’s expectations. Common causes include:

• Inconsistent Spacing: Mixing spaces and tabs or varying space counts.
• Extra Indent: Adding indentation where it’s not needed.
• Misaligned Blocks: Incorrect nesting of code blocks.

# This triggers "IndentationError"
def hello():
print("Hello")  # Missing indent
    print("World")  # Unexpected indent

How to Fix It: 3 Solutions

(Diagram: Developer aligns indentation, resolves error, runs successfully.)

Solution 1: Standardize Indentation

# Wrong
def hello():
print("Hello")
    print("World")

# Fixed
def hello():
    print("Hello")
    print("World")

Use 4 spaces per indent level consistently (PEP 8 standard).

Solution 2: Remove Unnecessary Indents

# Wrong
print("Start")
    print("Middle")  # Extra indent

# Fixed
print("Start")
print("Middle")

Ensure only logical blocks (e.g., inside functions) are indented.

Solution 3: Use an Editor with Auto-Formatting

# Wrong (mixed tabs and spaces)
def mixed():
    print("Tabs")
   print("Spaces")  # Tab vs. space mismatch

# Fixed (auto-formatted)
def mixed():
    print("Tabs")
    print("Spaces")

Use tools like VS Code or PyCharm with auto-indent settings.

Quick Checklist

• Mixed tabs/spaces? (Use spaces only)
• Extra indents? (Remove them)
• Editor issues? (Enable auto-formatting)

Conclusion

The "IndentationError: unexpected indent" in Python is a common pitfall due to its strict indentation rules. With these 2025 solutions, you’ll keep your code clean and error-free. Got another Python error? Let us know in the comments!