Python TutorialLesson 35Free preview

Python User Input

This lesson is part of Python · All levels

Summary

The input() function reads text from the user via the keyboard and always returns string data. Therefore, the input must be converted to int() or float() if it is to be used as a number. You can also type prompt text in input() so that the user knows what to type.

Key points

It displays the prompt, waits for Enter, then returns the string.
For numbers use int(input(...)) or float(input(...)).
Conversion could fail with ValueError, so secure it with try/except when input is uncertain.
In Python 3 is sufficient; the function is only present in Python 2.

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