Understanding How Python Stores and Manages Data

📦 What is a Variable?

In Python, variables are like containers that store data. Whether it’s a number, string, or even a complex object — a variable helps you label and work with it easily.


🔧 Creating Variables

Unlike some other programming languages, Python does not require a special keyword to declare a variable.

You create a variable simply by assigning it a value:

x = 5
y = "John"

print(x)  # Output: 5
print(y)  # Output: John

🌀 Dynamic Typing

Python is dynamically typed, meaning a variable’s type can change based on the value assigned:

x = 4       # Integer
x = "Sally" # Now it's a string
print(x)    # Output: Sally

🔁 Type Casting

Want to make sure a variable is a specific type? Use casting:

x = str(3)    # '3' (string)
y = int(3)    # 3 (integer)
z = float(3)  # 3.0 (float)

🔍 Finding Variable Type

Use Python’s built-in type() function to check what type a variable is holding:

x = 5
y = "John"

print(type(x))  # Output: <class 'int'>
print(type(y))  # Output: <class 'str'>

📝 Single or Double Quotes?

In Python, both single ' ' and double " " quotes are valid for declaring string variables:

x = "John"
y = 'Doe'

They work the same — choose the one that improves readability or avoids escaping characters.


🔡 Case Sensitivity

Python is case-sensitive, which means:

a = 4
A = "Sally"

Here, a and A are two different variables.


💡 Best Practices for Variable Naming

  • Use descriptive names: user_age is better than ua
  • Stick to lowercase letters and underscores: first_name, total_score
  • Avoid starting variable names with numbers or using special characters
  • Never use Python keywords (like class, if, return) as variable names

🚀 Why Learn Variables with GoNimbus?

On GoNimbus, you don’t just learn — you practice! Use our built-in Python Code Editor to try these examples instantly and see the results live.

✅ Real-time output
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