"get_int()" in VS Code: A Helpful Function You Can't Use (But Should!)
The Problem: Craving "get_int()"
You're working on a Python program in VS Code and you need to get a whole number (integer) from the user. You've seen the "get_int()" function in examples, and it seems like the perfect solution. But when you try to use it, you get an error. Why? "get_int()" isn't built into Python.
The Code: What You're Trying to Do
number = get_int("Enter a number: ")
print(f"You entered: {number}")
You want to use "get_int()" to prompt the user for input and then store the result in the "number" variable. This is a common and convenient way to get integer input in other programming languages.
The Solution: Creating Your Own (Or Using a Library)
Since "get_int()" isn't a standard Python function, you have two main options:
- Create your own "get_int()" function:
def get_int(prompt):
"""Gets an integer from the user."""
while True:
try:
return int(input(prompt))
except ValueError:
print("Invalid input. Please enter an integer.")
# Example usage
number = get_int("Enter a number: ")
print(f"You entered: {number}")
This code defines a function called "get_int" that takes a prompt message as an argument. The function uses a loop to keep asking the user for input until they enter a valid integer.
- Use a library like "input_validation":
from input_validation import get_integer
number = get_integer("Enter a number: ")
print(f"You entered: {number}")
The "input_validation" library provides a "get_integer" function that handles input validation and automatically converts the input to an integer. You can install it using pip install input-validation.
Benefits of Creating Your Own Function
- Customization: You can add specific error handling or validation logic to your own "get_int" function to suit your specific needs.
- Control: You have complete control over how the function behaves and what error messages are displayed.
Benefits of Using a Library
- Convenience: Libraries provide ready-to-use functions for common tasks like input validation, saving you time and effort.
- Reliability: Libraries are often tested and maintained by a community, which helps ensure their quality and reliability.
Conclusion: Don't Be Fooled by "get_int()"
While "get_int()" is a tempting shortcut, it's important to understand that it's not part of the standard Python library. By creating your own function or using a library, you can achieve the same functionality and have greater control over your code.
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