How to Use Python Data Types

Python

Introduction

Python data types are the core building blocks of any Python program. They help in organizing and managing data effectively. Understanding Python data types is essential for writing clean and efficient code. Python has a variety of built-in data types that can handle different kinds of data, such as text, numbers, and collections.

This guide walks you through the most common Python data types and how to use them when coding applications.

Prerequisites

Before you get started:

  • Deploy a VPS server (for example, Ubuntu 24.04)
  • Create a non-root sudo user.
  • Install Python.
  • Set up a virtual environment.

Declare Data Types

To declare data types in Python, you need to assign a specific value to a variable, which in turn defines the type of data the variable will store as shown below

Python
variable_name = data_type

Python str Data Type

The str data type in Python stores text or string values. You can enclose Strings within single or double quotes. A str data type is immutable, meaning you cannot change it after creating it.

Python
greeting = "Hello, World!"
print(greeting)

Python int Data Type

The int data type represents integer values. Integers are whole numbers without a fractional part. They are useful for counting and performing arithmetic operations.

Python
age = 25
print(age)

Python float Data Type

The float data type represents floating-point numbers, which are numbers with a decimal point. Floats represent fractional values and perform precise calculations.

Python
price = 19.99
discount = 0.1
final_price = price - (price * discount)
print(final_price)

Python bool Data Type

The bool data type represents boolean values, which can be either True or False. You can use Booleans in conditional statements and logic operations. The data type help you control the flow of a program.

Python
is_sunny = True
is_raining = False
print(is_sunny)
print(is_raining)

Python list Data Type

The list data type is a collection of items enclosed within square brackets. Lists can store multiple values of different data types. They are ordered and mutable, meaning you can change their contents.

Python
fruits = ["apple", "banana", "cherry"]
print(fruits)

Python dict Data Type

The dict data type represents a dictionary, which is a collection of key-value pairs enclosed within curly braces. Dictionaries store data values that are associated with unique keys. They are unordered and mutable.

Python
person = {"name": "Alice", "age": 30, "city": "New York"}
print(person)

Python tuple Data Type

The tuple data type is a collection of items enclosed within parentheses. Tuples are similar to lists, but they are immutable, meaning you cannot change their contents after creation. Tuples are useful for grouping related data.

Python
coordinates = (40.7128, -74.0060)
print(coordinates)

Python set Data Type

The set data type is an unordered collection of unique items enclosed within curly braces. Sets store non-duplicate values and perform operations like union, intersection, and difference.

Python
unique_numbers = {1, 2, 3, 4, 5}
print(unique_numbers)

Python None Data Type

The NoneType data type in Python represents the absence of a value. The None keyword define a null value or a variable without a value. You'll mostly use this data type as a placeholder.

Python
result = None
print(result)

Conclusion

Understanding and using Python data types is crucial for writing effective code. This guide has covered the basic data types, including str, int, float, bool, list, dict, tuple, set, and NoneType. Each data type serves a specific purpose and helps you manage data in different ways. By mastering these data types, you'll be well-equipped to handle various coding challenges and build robust applications.