Python Collections Explained with Simple Examples (List, Tuple, Set, and Dictionary)

Python Collections Explained with Simple Examples (List, Tuple, Set, and Dictionary)

Python has four common built-in collections used to store multiple items: list, tuple, set, and dictionary. Each one is designed for a slightly different situation.

List

A list is an ordered collection that can be changed.

Use it when items may grow, change, or be updated.

fruits = ["apple", "banana", "mango"]

fruits.append("orange")
print(fruits)
        

Lists keep order and allow duplicates.

Tuple

A tuple is ordered but cannot be changed after creation.

Use it for fixed data.

colors = ("red", "green", "blue")

print(colors[0])
        

Once created, a tuple stays the same.

Set

A set stores unique values only and does not keep order.

Use it when you want to remove duplicates.

numbers = {1, 2, 2, 3, 4}

print(numbers)
        

Output will be {1, 2, 3, 4} because duplicates are removed.

Dictionary

A dictionary stores data as key-value pairs.

Use it when items need names instead of numeric positions.

student = {
    "name": "Arif",
    "age": 25
}

print(student["name"])
        

Quick idea

  • List: ordered and changeable
  • Tuple: ordered but fixed
  • Set: unique items only
  • Dictionary: key-value data storage

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