Python lists are fundamental data structures that allow you to store and organize multiple items in a single container. They are versatile, mutable, and widely used in Python programming.
A list in Python is an ordered collection of elements, which can be of different data types. Lists are defined using square brackets []
and elements are separated by commas.
You can create a list in Python using various methods:
# Empty list
empty_list = []
# List with elements
fruits = ["apple", "banana", "cherry"]
# List with mixed data types
mixed_list = [1, "hello", 3.14, True]
# List using the list() constructor
numbers = list(range(1, 6))
List elements are accessed using index notation, starting from 0 for the first element:
fruits = ["apple", "banana", "cherry"]
print(fruits[0]) # Output: apple
print(fruits[-1]) # Output: cherry (last element)
Python lists support various operations:
list.append(item)
list.extend(iterable)
list.insert(index, item)
list.remove(item)
or del list[index]
list[start:end]
Python offers a concise way to create lists using list comprehensions:
squares = [x**2 for x in range(1, 6)]
print(squares) # Output: [1, 4, 9, 16, 25]
For more advanced list operations, check out the Python List Operations guide.
Method | Description |
---|---|
len(list) |
Returns the number of elements in the list |
list.sort() |
Sorts the list in ascending order |
list.reverse() |
Reverses the order of elements in the list |
list.count(item) |
Returns the number of occurrences of an item in the list |
Lists are essential in Python programming. They provide a flexible way to store and manipulate collections of data. As you progress in your Python journey, you'll find lists indispensable for various tasks, from simple data storage to complex algorithms.
To further enhance your understanding of Python data structures, explore Python Dictionaries and Python Sets.