Problem Formulation
Given a Python list of elements.
If you print the list to the shell using print([1, 2, 3]), the output is enclosed in square brackets and separated by commas like so: "[1, 2, 3]".
But you want the list without brackets and commas like so: 1 2 3.
print([1, 2, 3])
# Output: [1, 2, 3]
# Desired: 1 2 3
How to print the list without enclosing brackets and without separating commas in Python?
Recommended Tutorial: How to Print a List Without Brackets in Python?
Method 1: Unpacking Multiple Values into Print Function
The asterisk operator * is used to unpack an iterable into the argument list of a given function.
You can unpack all list elements into the print() function to print all values individually, separated by an empty space per default (that you can override using the sep argument). For example, the expression print(*my_list) prints the elements in my_list, empty space separated, without the enclosing square brackets and without the separating commas!
Here’s an example:
my_list = [1, 2, 3]
print(*my_list)
# Output: 1 2 3
Note: If you want a different separating character, you can set the sep argument of the print() function. For example, print(*my_list, sep='|') will use the vertical bar '|' as a separating character.
Here’s an example:
my_list = [1, 2, 3]
print(*my_list, sep='|')
# Output: 1|2|3
You can learn about the ins and outs of the built-in print() function in the following video:
To master the basics of unpacking, feel free to check out this video on the asterisk operator:
Method 2: String Replace Method
A simple way to print a list without commas and square brackets is to first convert the list to a string using the built-in str() function. Then modify the resulting string representation of the list by using the string.replace() method until you get the desired result.
Here’s an example:
my_list = [1, 2, 3] # Convert List to String
s = str(my_list)
print(s)
# [1, 2, 3] # Replace Separating Commas and Square Brackets
s = s.replace(', ', '\n').replace('[', '').replace(']', '') # Print List Without Commas and Brackets
print(s)
The result is a string without commas and without brackets:
1
2
3
Method 3: String Join With Generator Expression
You can print a list without brackets and without commas. Use the string.join() method on any separator string such as ' ' or '\t'. Pass a generator expression to convert each list element to a string using the str() built-in function. For example, the expression print(' '.join(str(x) for x in my_list)) prints my_list to the shell without enclosing brackets and commas.
my_list = [1, 2, 3]
print(' '.join(str(x) for x in my_list))
# Output: 1 2 3
You can modify the separator string on which you join to customize the appearance of the list:
my_list = [1, 2, 3]
print('xxx'.join(str(x) for x in my_list))
# Output: 1xxx2xxx3
- The
string.join(iterable)method concatenates the elements in the given iterable. - The
str(object)built-in function converts a given object to its string representation. - Generator expressions or list comprehensions are concise one-liner ways to create a new iterable based by reusing elements from another iterable.
You can dive deeper into generators in the following video:
Where to Go From Here?
Enough theory. Let’s get some practice!
Coders get paid six figures and more because they can solve problems more effectively using machine intelligence and automation.
To become more successful in coding, solve more real problems for real people. That’s how you polish the skills you really need in practice. After all, what’s the use of learning theory that nobody ever needs?
You build high-value coding skills by working on practical coding projects!
Do you want to stop learning with toy projects and focus on practical code projects that earn you money and solve real problems for people?
If your answer is YES!, consider becoming a Python freelance developer! It’s the best way of approaching the task of improving your Python skills—even if you are a complete beginner.
If you just want to learn about the freelancing opportunity, feel free to watch my free webinar “How to Build Your High-Income Skill Python” and learn how I grew my coding business online and how you can, too—from the comfort of your own home.
Programmer Humor
Question: How did the programmer die in the shower? ☠
❗ Answer: They read the shampoo bottle instructions:
Lather. Rinse. Repeat.
https://www.sickgaming.net/blog/2022/08/...in-python/