Using Packages

Using Packages in Python

In Python, a package is a way to organize and group several related modules into a folder structure. Packages help you keep your code organized, scalable, and easy to maintain, especially in large projects.

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What is a Package?

A package is simply a folder that contains a special file called __init__.py (can be empty) and one or more modules (.py). This tells Python that the folder should be treated as a package.

Example of a package structure:

• Directorymy_package/

  • __init__.py
  • module1.py
  • module2.py

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Why Use Packages?

• Organization: Groups related modules under the same folder.
• Scalability: Makes it easier to grow your project without losing control.
• Reuse: You can import only what you need from each package.

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How to Create and Use a Package?

1. Create the package folder For example, create a folder called utilities and inside it a file __init__.py (can be empty).

2. Add your modules For example, create a file math.py inside the folder:

Module Inside a Package

# utilities/math.py
def add(a, b):
  return a + b

3. Import from your package In your main file, import the module or function you need:

Importing a Module from a Package

from utilities import math

print(math.add(3, 4))  # 7

You can also import specific functions:

Importing a Specific Function from a Package

from utilities.math import add

print(add(10, 5))  # 15

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Best Practices

• Use descriptive names for your packages and modules.
• Keep each package focused on a single topic or functionality.
• Place an __init__.py file in each package folder (even if it is empty).

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Summary

• Packages group related modules and help organize large projects.
• You only need a folder with __init__.py and your modules.
• Import modules or functions as needed.

Ready to practice? Create your own package with several modules and test it in a program.