Introduction
Python is a powerful and versatile language that has taken the tech world by storm so it's no surprise that many of us want to explore what it can do. Whether you’re new to programming, expanding your coding skillset, or just looking for something different, there are plenty of reasons why a module in the Python language might offer exactly what you need! Read on to find out more about this dynamic programming language and get an introduction to learning how to create your own modules using Python.
Define module in python
A module in Python is like a toolbox or container that holds classes, functions, constants, and other code. It's an organized way to store related code and can be used for anything ranging from small utilities or libraries that are part of larger projects, to special plug-ins for popular Python frameworks like Django. At its core, a module provides a way of bundling up useful pieces of code into one entity that can then be imported and used by other programs. Module in python can save developers time and make sure the code is structured in a consistent way. Python modules are also helpful when it comes to reusability, as they make it possible to quickly share and use existing code with minimal effort.
Example
def print_func( par ):
print "Hello : ", par
return
Python import module
Python's import module is an incredibly powerful tool, allowing Python developers to easily access and use libraries from Python's officially maintained Standard Library. Much of Python's large selection of features and capabilities stem from the built-in packages found in the library, and importing them with Python import modules can drastically reduce development time, freeing up skilled developers for more important tasks. Furthermore, Python import modules are highly secure, eliminating the possibility for errors or malicious content to be invoked in a user program. Without Python's import module, many Python applications would not exist today - making it an essential piece of Python development.
Syntax
import module1[, module2[,... moduleN]
Example
# Import module support
import support
# Now you can call defined function that module as follows
support.print_func("Urmi")
Output
Hello : Urmi
Python path environment variable
Python path environment variable is an important concept to understand in Python development. This environmental variable is used to tell Python where to look for modules when it imports them into a file. By understanding this variable, it’s possible to create Python applications that can be more easily shared and relocated between systems; Python will be able to find the necessary modules regardless of the location they’re stored in. It’s also possible to use Python path environment variable as a way of organizing application data that needs to be imported into Python. By creating folders and folders of imports and then configuring Python path environment variables for each of these, Python developers can ensure their project architecture remains organized even as it gets bigger. Understanding and utilizing Python path environment variables is an essential part of successful Python development.
A typical Python path environment variable from a Windows system −
set Python path = c:\python20\lib;
A typical Python path environment variable from a UNIX system −
set Python path = /usr/local/lib/python
Namespace and scope in python
Namespace and scope in python are two of the most fundamental concepts that any programmer should be aware of. Namespace is a container that holds user-defined names which can be used to store variables, classes, functions, etc. Namespace in python provides an organized way of accessing these attributes and help avoid naming conflicts. Scope, on the other hand, refers to the region within a program where a name or entity is valid or available. It determines in which part of the program we can access a particular name or entity. By understanding Namespace and Scope, it becomes easier to organize our code and make it more efficient.
Example
Money = 4500
def AddMoney():
# Uncomment the following line to fix the code:
# global Money
Money = Money + 1
print Money
AddMoney()
print Money
The dir( ) Function in python
The dir( ) function in Python is a powerful tool that can be used to gain insight into an object quickly. The function takes an object as an argument and returns a list of all methods and attributes associated with the object. This provides users with an easy way to analyze any given object or list the available methods for interacting with it. The dir( ) function is hugely beneficial for developers and has been used in many successful applications over the years. Its reliance on providing simple information that can be easily parsed makes it invaluable in any Python script.
Example
# Import built-in module math
import math
content = dir(math)
print content
Output
['__doc__', '__file__', '__name__', 'acos', 'asin', 'atan',
'atan2', 'ceil', 'cos', 'cosh', 'degrees', 'e', 'exp',
'fabs', 'floor', 'fmod', 'frexp', 'hypot', 'ldexp', 'log',
'log10', 'modf', 'pi', 'pow', 'radians', 'sin', 'sinh',
'sqrt', 'tan', 'tanh']
The reload() Function in python
The reload() function in python is an immensely powerful tool that can be used to update already imported modules while working with a program. The great thing about python reload() is that it only affects the implementation of the module and not any of the objects it has already created, giving programs more flexibility. This means a programmer can make changes to their code while their program is running and new versions of already loaded modules will still be able to run without the risk of their past work breaking. The reload() makes coding much easier, allowing a programmer to test updated modules quickly and easily.
Packages in Python
Python packages are an invaluable asset for a programmer of any skill level; they are pre-packaged bits of code that allow us to perform complex functions quickly and easily. These packages have been created by python developers from all over the world, making it one of the most powerful and collaborative coding tools out there today. Not only do these python packages save time, but they also make it easier for users to access multiple programming languages in one place. With python packages, the possibilities are truly endless - from data analysis to web development and beyond, python packages can be used to tackle nearly any type of project efficiently and effectively.
Summary
Overall, modules in Python language provide great advantages for both developers and users. With it, you have access to powerful tools and resources that help you improve your programming skills and get the most out of your development projects. It's easy to use and requires little maintenance to keep up with changes in Python language. Additionally, you can create a custom module if you need something specific for your project. Now get out there, explore all Python has to offer and build something amazing!
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