Python Modules and Libraries: Student Handout
Introduction to Modules and Libraries
Modules and libraries in Python allow you to use pre-written code to solve problems efficiently.
Instead of writing everything from scratch, you can leverage existing solutions.
1. What is a Python Module?
A module is a file containing Python code, including functions, classes, and variables. You can
import a module into your program to use its code.
How to Use a Module?
To use a module, you need to import it using the import statement.
Example 1: Using the math Module
import math
# Calculate the square root of 16
result = math.sqrt(16)
print(result) # Output: 4.0
Example 2: Using the random Module
import random
# Generate a random number between 1 and 10
random_number = random.randint(1, 10)
print(random_number)
Example 3: Using the statistics Module
import statistics
# Calculate the mean of a list of numbers
data = [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
mean_value = statistics.mean(data)
print(mean_value) # Output: 3
2. What is a Python Library?
A library is a collection of modules that are related to each other. Libraries help you perform
specific tasks without writing all the code yourself.
Popular Python Libraries
Example 1: NumPy
NumPy is used for numerical computations and provides support for arrays and matrices.
import numpy as np
# Create a NumPy array
array = np.array([1, 2, 3, 4, 5])
print(array)
Example 2: Pandas
Pandas is used for data manipulation and analysis, providing data structures like DataFrames.
import pandas as pd
# Create a DataFrame
data = {'Name': ['Alice', 'Bob'], 'Age': [25, 30]}
df = pd.DataFrame(data)
print(df)
Example 3: Matplotlib
Matplotlib is used for creating visualizations like graphs and charts.
import matplotlib.pyplot as plt
# Plot a simple line graph
plt.plot([1, 2, 3], [4, 5, 6])
plt.show()
3. Importing and Using Built-in Modules
Python has several built-in modules that you can use without installing anything.
Built-in Modules
Example 1: The datetime Module
import datetime
# Get the current date and time
current_time = datetime.datetime.now()
print(current_time)
Example 2: The os Module
import os
# Get the current working directory
current_directory = os.getcwd()
print(current_directory)
Example 3: The sys Module
import sys
# Get the list of command-line arguments
arguments = sys.argv
print(arguments)
4. Installing External Libraries
For external libraries, you need to install them using a package manager like pip .
Installing a Library
Example: Installing NumPy
pip install numpy
Conclusion
A module is a file containing Python code.
A library is a collection of related modules.
Use built-in modules like math , datetime , os , and sys without installation.
Install external libraries using pip .
By using modules and libraries, you can save time and effort in your programming tasks. Happy
coding!
