In computing, a list is a fundamental data structure used to store multiple data items that can be accessed by indices. In Python programming, a list is created by placing items (which could be integers, float, strings, etc) inside a square bracket [ ], separated by a comma. We are going to show you how simple and versatile Python lists are, and how to define them.

Step 1: Understanding Python List

A list is an in-built data type in Python. It is used to store multiple items in a single variable. Lists are created by placing all the items (elements) inside a square bracket [ ], separated by commas. It can have any number of items and they may be of different types (integer, float, string, etc.).

Step 2: How to Define a List

To define a list in Python, you use square brackets. Inside these brackets, you can place elements separated by commas. This is how to create a simple Python list:

In this case, “fruits” is the name of your list, and ‘apple’, ‘banana’, ‘cherry’, and ‘dates’ are the elements within the list.

Step 3: Accessing List Items

In Python, the items in a list are list are ordered, changeable, allow duplicate values and indexed. The first index is [0], the second index is [1], and so forth. Hence, to reference or pull a value from a list, you can use its index. For example:

This will output:

apple

Step 4: Changing List Items

To change a value in a Python list, reference the list name followed by the index of the value you want to change, and then provide the new value. Here’s how you do it:

Then printing the list:

will output:

['apple', 'blueberry', 'cherry', 'dates']

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Conclusion

Learning how to define a list in Python not only provides you with a versatile tool, but it’s also the first step in an exciting journey towards becoming proficient in Python data structures.