Working with Files in Python (Read, Write, Append)

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Working with Files in Python (Read, Write, Append)

In Python, file handling is an essential skill for working with data stored in text or binary files. Whether you're logging activity, reading a dataset, or saving user input, understanding how to read, write, and append to files is fundamental. Python makes file operations straightforward with its built-in open() function and context managers.

Opening a File in Python

To perform any file operation, you first open a file using the open() function:
python
file = open("example.txt", "mode")
The mode specifies the operation:

'r' – Read (default)

'w' – Write (creates new file or overwrites existing)

'a' – Append (writes at the end of the file)

'b' – Binary mode

'+' – Read and Write

Reading from a File

To read contents from a file:

python
with open("example.txt", "r") as file:
    content = file.read()
    print(content)
Alternatively, use:

file.readline() – reads one line at a time

file.readlines() – returns all lines as a list

Using with ensures the file is automatically closed after use.

Writing to a File

To write data:

python
with open("example.txt", "w") as file:
    file.write("Hello, Python!")
This will overwrite the existing file. If the file doesn’t exist, it will be created.

Appending to a File

To add content without deleting existing data:

python
with open("example.txt", "a") as file:
    file.write("\nThis line is added later.")
This appends the new text to the end of the file.

Best Practices

Always close files (or use with to handle it automatically).

Handle exceptions using try...except blocks.

For large files, read line-by-line to avoid memory overload.

Conclusion

Working with files in Python is efficient and flexible. With just a few functions, you can perform powerful read, write, and append operations. Mastering file handling is crucial for data processing, automation, and real-world applications in Python development.

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