Data Types in Python

Understand Python data types: dynamic typing, built-in types, mutability, type checking, comparisons, and validations.

What Are Data Types?

Data types define what kind of value a variable can hold. Python is dynamically typed, meaning types are determined at runtime.

1. Dynamic Typing

Variables can change their data type.

Built-in Data Types

Python has several built-in data types. Some are immutable and some are mutable.

1. String (str)

Text data.

2. Integer (int)

Whole numbers.

3. Float

Decimal numbers.

4. Boolean (bool)

True or False.

5. NoneType

Represents absence of value.

Collection Data Types

Collection types store multiple values inside a single variable.

1. List

Ordered, mutable collection.

2. Tuple

Ordered, immutable collection.

3. Dictionary (dict)

Key-value pairs.

4. Set

Unordered unique values.

5. Function

Callable object.

Printing the Data Type

Python provides the built-in function `type()` to inspect data types.

1. Using type()

Check the type of a value.

Type Checking & Validation

Use isinstance() for reliable type checking instead of comparing type() directly.

1. Using isinstance()

Preferred type checking method.

2. Checking Lists, Dictionaries, and Functions

Check specific types properly.