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Lecture 2 B Handout Variable

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5 views2 pages

Lecture 2 B Handout Variable

Uploaded by

Barathraj D18
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Understanding Variables in Programming

A variable in programming can be thought of as a "box" that stores data. Just like you might use
different boxes to store different types of items (e.g., a box for toys, another for books), variables in
programming are used to store various kinds of information, such as numbers, text, or more
complex data.

What is a Variable?
A variable is a symbolic name given to a memory location where data can be stored. This data can
be modified or retrieved during the program's execution. Variables help programmers organize,
manage, and manipulate data efficiently.
For example:
name = "Alice"
age = 25

Here:
• name is a variable that holds the value "Alice" (a piece of text).
• age is another variable that stores the number 25.

Think of a Variable as a Box


Imagine you have a set of labeled boxes:
• Each box has a name written on it (the variable's name).
• You can put something inside the box (the variable's value).
• You can later open the box, check what's inside, or even replace the contents with something
new.
For example:
• Box labeled score might contain the number 100.
• Box labeled message might hold the text "Hello, World!".

Key Characteristics of Variables


1. Name: The label or identifier for the box. Each variable has a unique name.
Example: x, username, or total_sum.
2. Value: The content stored in the variable (the data inside the box).
Example: 42, "Python", or 3.14.
3. Data Type: Variables can store different kinds of data:
• Numbers (integers, decimals)
• Text (strings)
• Boolean values (True or False)

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• Complex data types (like lists or dictionaries)

Using Variables in Programs


Variables allow you to reuse data and make your code more dynamic. For instance:
price = 50
quantity = 3
total_cost = price * quantity
print(total_cost) # Output: 150

Here:
• We use the price and quantity variables to calculate total_cost.
• If price or quantity changes, the program automatically adjusts the result.

Why Are Variables Useful?


• Reusability: Store data in one place and use it repeatedly.
• Flexibility: Change the data without modifying the entire program.
• Readability: Descriptive names make the code easier to understand.
In summary, a variable is like a versatile, labeled box that can hold different types of data. It helps
make programming more structured, efficient, and dynamic!

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