Python Modules and Packages: Questions and Answers

What is a Python module?
A Python module is a file containing Python definitions and statements. It allows code reuse and better organization.
Example: math.py.
How do you import a built-in Python module?
Use the import keyword. Example:
```
import math
```
What is the difference between a module and a package in Python?
- A module is a single Python file.
- A package is a collection of modules organized in directories and initialized by an __init__.py file.
How can you create a custom module in Python?
Save your Python functions in a `.py` file. Example:
```
# File: my_module.py
def greet(name):
    return f"Hello, {name}!"
```
Import it using from my_module import greet.
Explain the use of the import keyword in Python.
The import keyword allows you to use external modules in your script. Example:
```
import random
print(random.randint(1, 10))
```
How do you import specific functions or variables from a module?
Use the from module_name import attribute syntax. Example:
```
from math import sqrt
print(sqrt(16))
```
What is the purpose of using as in Python imports?
Using as creates an alias for a module, making it easier to reference. Example:
```
import pandas as pd
df = pd.DataFrame()
```
How can you list all available functions and variables in a module?
Use the dir() function. Example:
```
import math
print(dir(math))
```
What is the role of the __init__.py file in a Python package?
The __init__.py file initializes a Python package and can include package-level variables or imports.
How do you access a function inside a submodule of a package?
Use dot notation to access the function. Example:
```
from package.submodule import function_name
```
What is the difference between import module and from module import *?
- import module: Imports the entire module; you need to prefix with the module name.
- from module import *: Imports all functions and variables, allowing direct use without the module prefix.
How can you reload a module in Python after making changes to it?
Use the importlib.reload() function. Example:
```
import importlib
import my_module
importlib.reload(my_module)
```
What happens if you try to import a module that doesn't exist?
Python raises a ModuleNotFoundError indicating that the module could not be found.
Can you import a Python script as a module? If yes, how?
Yes, save the script as a `.py` file and import it like any other module. Example:
```
import my_script
```
How can you check the location of an imported module in Python?
Use the module_name.__file__ attribute. Example:
```
import math
print(math.__file__)
```
What is the purpose of dir() when working with modules?
The dir() function lists all attributes (functions, variables) of a module.
Explain the concept of relative imports in Python packages.
Relative imports use dots to navigate the directory structure of packages. Example:
```
from .module1 import function_name
```
How do you handle circular imports in Python?
Use conditional imports or restructure your code to avoid interdependent modules. Example:
```
# File A
def func_a():
    from file_b import func_b
    func_b()

# File B
def func_b():
    from file_a import func_a
    func_a()
```
Can you import modules from a different directory? If yes, how?
Yes, by modifying the sys.path list. Example:
```
import sys
sys.path.append('/path/to/directory')
import my_module
```
What are the advantages of organizing your code into modules and packages?
- Code reusability across multiple projects.
- Better organization for easier navigation.
- Improved scalability by modularizing functionalities.

Subhendu Mohapatra

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Python Modules and Packages: Questions and Solutions

Subhendu Mohapatra