How to Use Python Len Function

Python

Introduction

The Python len() function determines the length of an object, such as a string, list, or dictionary. This function is essential for various programming tasks, including iterating through sequences and validating input data.

This guide shows you how to use the Python len() function.

Prerequisites

Before you begin:

  • Deploy a VPS server. For instance, Ubuntu 24.04.
  • Create a non-root sudo user.
  • Install Python.

The Python len() Function Syntax

The len() function returns the number of items in an object, such as the number of characters in a string or the number of elements in a list.

Here's the basic syntax:

Python
len(object)

Example with a string:

Python
text = "Hello, World!"
length = len(text)
print(length)  # Output: 13

In this example, the len() function returns the number of characters in the string.

Practical Use Cases

The len() function is often used in scenarios where you need to determine the size of an object, such as validating input data or iterating through sequences.

Example with a list:

Python
numbers = [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
count = len(numbers)
print(count)  # Output: 5

In this example, the len() function returns the number of elements in the list.

Conclusion

This guide explains the len() function, including its syntax and practical use cases. The len() function is essential for determining the length of objects in Python. Understanding how to use this function effectively can enhance your ability to work with various data structures and improve the accuracy of your code.