In this article, we are going to learn about data types in Python. A data type in programming is a classification that specifies the type of value that a particular variable holds. The data type tells the computer what kind of data is being stored in a particular variable, and what type of operations can be performed on that data. For example, integer data types can hold whole numbers, while string data types can hold text data. Understanding data types is essential for creating efficient and effective programs. It allows programmers to correctly allocate memory for variables, perform mathematical and logical operations, and accurately manipulate and store data.
Strings
A string is a sequence of characters enclosed in quotation marks that represents text. It can include anything from letters, numbers, and symbols to spaces and punctuation. To enclose a string, we can either use double quotation marks " or single quotation marks '. Strings are commonly used to store textual data, such as names, addresses, and messages, and can be manipulated using various string-related functions and operations.
userName = "Joe" # this is a string
password = '#3t7s55w' # this is a string
Integers
An integer is a number that can be written without a fractional part. An integer can be a positive number, a negative number or 0. Integers help in carrying out mathematical operations and logical comparisons efficiently in a computer system.
age = 25 # this is an integer
points = "25" # this is not an integer
Floats
A float is a number that contains a decimal portion. It can be used to represent numbers that have fractional quantities. Floats are commonly used in programming because many algorithms require the use of numbers with decimal points.
price = 19.99 # this is a float
result = 3.5 # this is a float
Booleans
A boolean in programming is a data type that can have one of two values which are generally represented as true or false. It is commonly used in programming to control the flow of logic and conditions. With boolean values, we can make decisions based on certain conditions, ranging from performing specific tasks to determining which path a program should take.
adult = True # this is a boolean
employed = False # this is a boolean
expensive = "True"# this is not a boolean
Getting the Data Type
In Python, there is a built-in function type() that returns the data type of any object passed in as an argument.
a = "Hello"
print(type(a)) # Output => str
b = 3
print(type(b)) # Output => int
c = 3.14
print(type(c)) # Output => float
d = True
print(type(d)) # Output => bool
Setting the Data Type
In Python, you can also set the data type of any object. The reason for this operation lies in the fact that every data type has its different functionalities and uses. For example, the result of adding two strings and adding two integers does not return the same value.
x = 4
print(float(x)) # Output => 4.0
y = 1.2
print(int(y)) # Output => 1
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the basic data types in Python is an essential foundation for any aspiring Python developer. By grasping the concepts of strings, integers, floats and booleans, you will have the tools to work with the most common types of data in programming. Additionally, by learning how to manipulate and combine these data types, you will be able to perform more complex operations and build more sophisticated programs.