Python import keyword is used when performing module or package imports in Python programming.
This keyword plays a vital role in bringing external modules, libraries, and packages into your code.
In essence, it allows you to access pre-existing code written by others, eliminating the need to reinvent the wheel for every task.
With import, you can tap into a vast ecosystem of community-built tools and libraries.
Importing Modules
To import a module in Python, you use the import keyword followed by the name of the module.
For example, let’s say you want to use the math module to perform mathematical calculations:
import math result = math.sqrt(25) print(result) # Output: 5.0
Here, we import the math module and use the sqrt function to calculate the square root of 25.
By importing the math module, you gain access to all the functions and constants it provides.
Importing Specific Objects
In some cases, you may only require a specific function or object from a module instead of importing the entire module.
In such scenarios, you can use the from keyword followed by the module name and import statement.
Here’s an example:
from math import sqrt result = sqrt(25) print(result) # Output: 5.0
In this case, you can directly import only the sqrt function from the math module without explicitly referencing the module name.
Importing with Aliases
Python also allows you to import modules or objects with custom aliases, which can be helpful when dealing with long module names or avoiding naming conflicts.
The as keyword is used to define the alias.
Let’s consider an example:
import numpy as np arr = np.array([1, 2, 3, 4, 5]) print(arr) # Output: [1 2 3 4 5]
Here, we import the numpy module and assign it the alias np.
Now, we can refer to the module using the shorter alias np throughout our code.
Importing from Packages
In addition to modules, Python also supports importing from packages.
A package is a way of organizing related modules into a directory hierarchy.
To import from a package, you can use the dot notation.
Consider the following example:
from mypackage.subpackage import module module.function()
Here, we import the module from the subpackage within the mypackage.
This hierarchical structure allows for better organization and logical grouping of related functionality.
Conclusion
The import keyword in Python empowers developers to harness the vast range of existing code libraries, modules, and packages.
It facilitates code reusability, modularity, and collaboration, making Python an exceptional language for rapid development and solving complex problems.
By mastering the import keyword, you unlock the ability to leverage a rich ecosystem of tools, boosting your productivity and enabling you to focus on solving unique challenges efficiently.