PEP 8 is the style guide for writing Python code, providing conventions to enhance code readability and consistency. It covers various aspects, including naming conventions, indentation, line length, and whitespace usage, helping developers write clean and maintainable code. By following PEP 8, programmers can ensure that their code is easily understood by others, fostering collaboration and reducing errors. The guidelines are widely adopted in the Python community, making it easier for developers to work together on projects and share code effectively.