Python is a versatile programming language used in everything from... Show more
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Dec 26, 2025
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Python Data Types Explained: A Beginner's Guide
Jenna
@jenna_bmem
1 / 5
Python Basics and Operators
In Python, you can assign values to variables with a simple equals sign. For example, a = expression evaluates the expression and stores the result in variable a.
The print() function displays values on the screen, while input() collects information from users. These are the building blocks of any interactive Python program.
Python includes several arithmetic operators that follow standard math order of operations. Besides the familiar +, -, *, /, and ** (exponentiation), Python has two special division operators:
%(modulo): Returns the remainder after division (like17 % 5equals 2)//(integer division): Returns just the quotient without decimals (like17 // 5equals 3)
Pro tip: The modulo operator (
%) is extremely useful for determining if a number is even or odd. Ifnumber % 2 == 0, the number is even!
Data Types
Python has several basic data types that store different kinds of information. The main ones you'll use include:
int: Whole numbersfloat(like 3.14, 0.001): Numbers with decimal pointsbool(True or False): Boolean values for logical operationsstr(like 'hello', "Python"): Text data
Booleans are particularly important for decision-making in your code. They're the result of comparison operations like <, >, ==, and !=. Remember that True and False must be capitalized in Python!
Strings represent text and can be created using either single quotes ('text') or double quotes ("text"). These are called string literals because you're literally writing out the text in your code.
Remember: Unlike other languages, Python is case-sensitive for everything, including Boolean values (
True/False), variable names, and function names.
Type Conversion (Casting)
Sometimes you need to convert data from one type to another - this is called casting. Python provides simple functions to handle this:
int()converts values to integers (whole numbers)float()converts values to floating-point numbersstr()converts values to strings
When casting decimal numbers to integers using int(), Python truncates the decimal portion rather than rounding. For example, int(1.8) becomes 1, not 2.
The input() function is crucial for interactive programs, allowing users to provide information to your program. It pauses your program until the user enters something and presses Enter.
Important: The
input()function always returns data as a string, even if the user types numbers! If you need numeric values, you must cast the input usingint()orfloat().
Working with User Input
Creating user-friendly programs means providing clear instructions about what input you expect. The input() function can display a prompt message by including it as an argument.
Instead of using separate lines like:
print('Enter a value:')
x = input()
You can combine them into a cleaner single statement:
x = input('Enter a value: ')
For calculations with user input, remember to convert string inputs to numbers first. You can do this in two ways:
- Store the input, then convert:
x = input('Value: ')followed byx = int(x) - Convert immediately:
x = int(input('Value: '))
Both approaches work, but the second is more concise and often preferred by experienced programmers.
Quick tip: When asking for numeric input, include the type in your prompt message (like "Please enter an integer:") to help users provide the right format.
Helpful Python Notes
Python has some special characters and operators that come in handy when writing code. The newline character \n lets you add line breaks within strings, while # creates comments that help document your code but don't execute.
Remember to always cast user inputs when performing calculations. For example, int(input()) or float(input()) ensures you're working with numbers rather than text.
String concatenation uses the + operator to join strings together (like "Hello" + "World" becomes "HelloWorld"), while printing multiple items typically uses commas (like print("Value:", x)).
When performing division, the // operator gives you whole number results (integer division), while % gives you just the remainder. For example, 5 // 2 equals 2 and 5 % 2 equals 1.
Success tip: Keep this reference handy during practice exercises. You'll quickly memorize these operations as you use them regularly in your code!
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
Most popular content in AP Computer Science A
Most popular content
Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
Python Data Types Explained: A Beginner's Guide
Jenna
@jenna_bmem
Python is a versatile programming language used in everything from web development to data science. This guide covers essential Python concepts you'll need to know for your exams, including basic operations, data types, and user input handling.
Python Basics and Operators
In Python, you can assign values to variables with a simple equals sign. For example, a = expression evaluates the expression and stores the result in variable a.
The print() function displays values on the screen, while input() collects information from users. These are the building blocks of any interactive Python program.
Python includes several arithmetic operators that follow standard math order of operations. Besides the familiar +, -, *, /, and ** (exponentiation), Python has two special division operators:
%(modulo): Returns the remainder after division (like17 % 5equals 2)//(integer division): Returns just the quotient without decimals (like17 // 5equals 3)
Pro tip: The modulo operator (
%) is extremely useful for determining if a number is even or odd. Ifnumber % 2 == 0, the number is even!
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Data Types
Python has several basic data types that store different kinds of information. The main ones you'll use include:
int: Whole numbersfloat(like 3.14, 0.001): Numbers with decimal pointsbool(True or False): Boolean values for logical operationsstr(like 'hello', "Python"): Text data
Booleans are particularly important for decision-making in your code. They're the result of comparison operations like <, >, ==, and !=. Remember that True and False must be capitalized in Python!
Strings represent text and can be created using either single quotes ('text') or double quotes ("text"). These are called string literals because you're literally writing out the text in your code.
Remember: Unlike other languages, Python is case-sensitive for everything, including Boolean values (
True/False), variable names, and function names.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Type Conversion (Casting)
Sometimes you need to convert data from one type to another - this is called casting. Python provides simple functions to handle this:
int()converts values to integers (whole numbers)float()converts values to floating-point numbersstr()converts values to strings
When casting decimal numbers to integers using int(), Python truncates the decimal portion rather than rounding. For example, int(1.8) becomes 1, not 2.
The input() function is crucial for interactive programs, allowing users to provide information to your program. It pauses your program until the user enters something and presses Enter.
Important: The
input()function always returns data as a string, even if the user types numbers! If you need numeric values, you must cast the input usingint()orfloat().
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Working with User Input
Creating user-friendly programs means providing clear instructions about what input you expect. The input() function can display a prompt message by including it as an argument.
Instead of using separate lines like:
print('Enter a value:')
x = input()
You can combine them into a cleaner single statement:
x = input('Enter a value: ')
For calculations with user input, remember to convert string inputs to numbers first. You can do this in two ways:
- Store the input, then convert:
x = input('Value: ')followed byx = int(x) - Convert immediately:
x = int(input('Value: '))
Both approaches work, but the second is more concise and often preferred by experienced programmers.
Quick tip: When asking for numeric input, include the type in your prompt message (like "Please enter an integer:") to help users provide the right format.
Sign up to see the contentIt's free!
Access to all documents
Improve your grades
Join milions of students
By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy
Helpful Python Notes
Python has some special characters and operators that come in handy when writing code. The newline character \n lets you add line breaks within strings, while # creates comments that help document your code but don't execute.
Remember to always cast user inputs when performing calculations. For example, int(input()) or float(input()) ensures you're working with numbers rather than text.
String concatenation uses the + operator to join strings together (like "Hello" + "World" becomes "HelloWorld"), while printing multiple items typically uses commas (like print("Value:", x)).
When performing division, the // operator gives you whole number results (integer division), while % gives you just the remainder. For example, 5 // 2 equals 2 and 5 % 2 equals 1.
Success tip: Keep this reference handy during practice exercises. You'll quickly memorize these operations as you use them regularly in your code!
We thought you’d never ask...
What is the Knowunity AI companion?
Our AI companion is specifically built for the needs of students. Based on the millions of content pieces we have on the platform we can provide truly meaningful and relevant answers to students. But its not only about answers, the companion is even more about guiding students through their daily learning challenges, with personalised study plans, quizzes or content pieces in the chat and 100% personalisation based on the students skills and developments.
Where can I download the Knowunity app?
You can download the app in the Google Play Store and in the Apple App Store.
Is Knowunity really free of charge?
That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.
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Most popular content in AP Computer Science A
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Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.
Students love us — and so will you.
4.9/5
App Store
4.8/5
Google Play
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user
The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.
Stefan S
iOS user
This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.
Samantha Klich
Android user
Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.
Anna
iOS user
I think it’s very much worth it and you’ll end up using it a lot once you get the hang of it and even after looking at others notes you can still ask your Artificial intelligence buddy the question and ask to simplify it if you still don’t get it!!! In the end I think it’s worth it 😊👍 ⚠️Also DID I MENTION ITS FREEE YOU DON’T HAVE TO PAY FOR ANYTHING AND STILL GET YOUR GRADES IN PERFECTLY❗️❗️⚠️
Thomas R
iOS user
Knowunity is the BEST app I’ve used in a minute. This is not an ai review or anything this is genuinely coming from a 7th grade student (I know 2011 im young) but dude this app is a 10/10 i have maintained a 3.8 gpa and have plenty of time for gaming. I love it and my mom is just happy I got good grades
Brad T
Android user
Not only did it help me find the answer but it also showed me alternative ways to solve it. I was horrible in math and science but now I have an a in both subjects. Thanks for the help🤍🤍
David K
iOS user
The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!
Sudenaz Ocak
Android user
In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.
Greenlight Bonnie
Android user
I found this app a couple years ago and it has only gotten better since then. I really love it because it can help with written questions and photo questions. Also, it can find study guides that other people have made as well as flashcard sets and practice tests. The free version is also amazing for students who might not be able to afford it. Would 100% recommend
Aubrey
iOS user
Best app if you're in Highschool or Junior high. I have been using this app for 2 school years and it's the best, it's good if you don't have anyone to help you with school work.😋🩷🎀
Marco B
iOS user
THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮
Elisha
iOS user
This app is phenomenal down to the correct info and the various topics you can study! I greatly recommend it for people who struggle with procrastination and those who need homework help. It has been perfectly accurate for world 1 history as far as I’ve seen! Geometry too!
Paul T
iOS user