Converting Array to List in Python

Learn how to convert array to list in Python with ease. Discover the differences between arrays and lists, and get hands-on experience with step-by-step code examples. …

Learn how to convert array to list in Python with ease. Discover the differences between arrays and lists, and get hands-on experience with step-by-step code examples.

Python provides several data structures that can be used to store collections of values. Two popular choices are lists and arrays. While both can be used to store multiple values, they have distinct differences in their implementation, usage, and functionality.

Definition of Array and List

• Array: In Python, an array is a collection of items of the same data type stored under a single variable name. Arrays in Python are not ordered, which means that the order of elements does not matter.
• List: A list is also an ordered collection of values that can be of any data type. Lists are similar to arrays but more flexible because they allow you to store different types of values.

Why Convert Array to List?

Converting an array to a list is beneficial in certain situations:

• You need to insert or delete elements at specific positions, which lists support efficiently.
• Your application involves manipulating data that requires maintaining the original order.
• You want to use methods available specifically for lists but not arrays.

Step-by-Step Guide to Converting Array to List

Here’s a step-by-step process:

1. Importing the array Module

To work with arrays in Python, you first need to import the array module.

import array as arr

2. Creating an Array

Next, create an array using the arr.array() function, specifying the type of elements it will hold (e.g., ‘i’ for integers).

my_array = arr.array('i', [1, 2, 3])
print("Original Array:", my_array)

3. Converting the Array to a List

Use the tolist() method provided by Python’s array module to convert your array into a list.

my_list = my_array.tolist()
print("List after Conversion:", my_list)

Complete Example Code

Here’s an example that encapsulates all steps:

import array as arr

def convert_array_to_list():
    # Creating an Array
    my_array = arr.array('i', [1, 2, 3])
    
    print("Original Array:", my_array)
    
    # Converting the Array to a List
    my_list = my_array.tolist()
    
    print("List after Conversion:", my_list)

convert_array_to_list()

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how arrays and lists work in Python, along with step-by-step instructions for converting an array into a list.