import Statement
A major advantage of Python as a programming language is the availability of a plethora of pre-developed modules and packages. Whether it’s a mathematical operation, date and time operation, or complex data manipulation, there is a Python module catering to the needs of developers. Modules and packages provide well-tested, reusable code that saves both time and effort. But how do you access this wealth of resources within your Python script? This is where the import
statement comes into play in Python.
What is the import Statement?
The import
statement in Python is used to load other Python source code files in your program so you can access their functions, methods, classes, and variables. Basically, it gives your script access to the Python code you want from another module or package, without you having to write it yourself.
Here is an example of how to use the import
statement:
In the example above, the import
statement is used to import the ‘math’ module, and then we have accessed the value of ‘pi’ defined in that module.
Importing Specific Attributes
The import
statement can also be used with the Python’s dot notation, to import specific attributes or functions from a module:
Here, we specifically import the ‘pi’ attribute from the ‘math’ module.
Importing Multiple Modules
The import
statement allows loading multiple modules by separating them with commas:
Note that importing many modules in one line is generally discouraged for readability reasons.
Importing and Renaming
In some cases, the name of the module or attribute you are importing might be too long, and you may prefer a shorter alias. Python’s import
statement also allows you to rename what you import:
The as
keyword allows you to provide an alias to the imported module.
Note
Always capitalize on the modular approach of Python, but be careful not to import unnecessary modules as it can slow down your script.
Did you know?
The import
statement only executes a module’s code the first time it’s imported. If you change a module and want those changes to be reflected in your script, you need to restart your Python interpreter.