How to Call a List from Another Function in Python

When creating complex programs in Python, it’s not uncommon to create functions that use a list from another function. This can help to improve the clarity, organization, and modifiability of your code.

However, achieving this in Python requires an understanding of Python’s handling of lists and function arguments. This tutorial will provide step-by-step instructions on how to successfully call a list from another function in Python.

Step 1: Define a Function that Returns a List

The first thing you need to do is define a function that returns a list. This function will generate and return a list that will be used by another function.
See the example below:

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def make_list():
    lst = [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
        return lst  

In the above code, we have defined a function make_list() that creates a list of numbers and returns it.

Step 2: Define a Second Function that Calls the First Function

Next, you define a second function that will call the first function and use the list it returns.
Example below:

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def print_list():
    lst = make_list()
        for i in lst:
            print(i)  

In the above code, the print_list() function is calling the make_list() function. The returned list from the make_list() function gets stored in the lst variable, which is then used in the for loop for printing the numbers.

Step 3: Call the Second Function in the Main Program

Finally, you call the second function in your main program. This is the function that will finally use the list that the first function generates and returns. Example below:

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print_list()  

The above statement will call the print_list() function, which in its turn calls the make_list() function, uses the list it returns, and prints the numbers.

Full Code

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def make_list():
    lst = [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
    return lst
 
 
def print_list():
    lst = make_list()
    for i in lst:
        print(i)
 
print_list()

Output

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5

Conclusion

Once you get a hold of Python’s handling of lists and function calling, it becomes relatively straightforward to call a list from another function. All you have to do is define a function that returns a list and a function that calls the first function and handles the list it generates.

These simple steps can significantly improve the readability and structure of your program, making it easier to manage and modify when needed.