Pattern Matching in Python

Complete guide to structural pattern matching using match-case (Python 3.10+). Learn literal patterns, sequence patterns, mapping patterns, class patterns, guards, wildcards, and real-world use cases.

Introduction to Pattern Matching

Pattern matching allows you to compare a value against multiple patterns and destructure it at the same time. It is more powerful and expressive than traditional if-elif chains.

1. Basic match-case Example

Match a value against fixed cases.

Literal & OR Patterns

You can match exact literal values or combine multiple patterns using |.

1. OR Pattern (|)

Match multiple literal values.

Sequence Patterns (Lists & Tuples)

Pattern matching works with lists and tuples and can destructure values automatically.

1. Fixed-Length Sequence

Match exact structure.

2. Variable-Length Sequence (*)

Capture remaining elements.

Mapping Patterns (Dictionaries)

Pattern matching can match specific keys and extract values from dictionaries.

1. Matching Dictionary Keys

Match required keys only.

2. Partial Matching

Match only specific keys.

Guard Conditions

Guards allow refining matches using an if condition.

1. Pattern with Guard

Add condition after match.

Class Pattern Matching

Pattern matching can destructure custom classes using attribute patterns.

1. Matching Custom Class

Match based on attributes.

Real-World Use Cases

Pattern matching simplifies parsing commands, APIs, configuration objects, and structured data.

1. Command Parser

Parse CLI-like commands.

2. API Response Handling

Match response structure.