In Python, a list is a mutable sequence of objects. They are extremely versatile, allowing programmers to store multiple items in a single variable. This tutorial will show you how to append to an empty list in Python.
Step 1: Creating an Empty List
To start, you need to create an empty list. This can be done simply by assigning a pair of empty brackets to a variable. This signifies that the variable stores an empty list:
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my_list = [] |
Step 2: Appending Items to the List
The append() function in Python adds an item to the end of a list. Here’s an example of how to use the append() function:
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my_list.append('apple') |
After this line of code is executed, the string ‘apple’ will be added to the end of the list.
Step 3: Checking the Output
To confirm that the item was added successfully, you could print the list:
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print(my_list) |
The output should be:
'apple'
Step 4: Appending Multiple Items
You can repeat the process of appending items as often as needed. For instance, you might add more fruit to the list:
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my_list.append('banana') my_list.append('cherry') |
Printing the list again, you’ll see:
['apple', 'banana', 'cherry']
Full Python Code:
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my_list = [] my_list.append('apple') print(my_list) my_list.append('banana') my_list.append('cherry') print(my_list) |
['apple'] ['apple', 'banana', 'cherry']
Conclusion
Appending to an empty list in Python is an easy and essential process that every Python programmer must know. It is an important aspect of working with lists, which are critical data structures in Python.
Just remember to use the append() function to add items to your lists, and you’ll be well on your way to mastering Python programming!