Skip to content

Parsing Files: Opening Files

Opening a File in Python

In the realm of programming, especially in Python, working with files is a fundamental skill. Whether you're reading data or writing results, understanding how to open and manage files is crucial.

1. Using the open Function to Open a File

In Python, the built-in open function is used to open a file. It returns a file object which can be used to read, write, or append to the file.

Syntax

file_object = open("filename", "mode")
  • filename: The name of the file you want to open.
  • mode: The mode in which you want to open the file. Common modes include:
    • r: Read (default mode)
    • w: Write
    • a: Append

Example

# Opening a file named "sample.txt" in read mode
file = open("sample.txt", "r")

2. The Importance of Closing a File

Once you're done working with a file, it's essential to close it using the close method. Closing a file:

  • Frees up the resources that were tied with the file.
  • Ensures that changes made to the file are saved.
  • Prevents potential data corruption.

Example

file = open("sample.txt", "r")
# ... perform operations on the file ...
file.close()  # Closing the file

3. Printing the Name of the File

Every file object in Python has a name attribute that stores the name of the file. You can easily print it as follows:

file = open("sample.txt", "r")
print(file.name)  # Outputs: sample.txt
file.close()

4. Printing the Mode of the File

To determine in which mode a file was opened (read, write, append, etc.), you can use the mode attribute of the file object.

file = open("sample.txt", "r")
print(file.mode)  # Outputs: r
file.close()

Version 1.0

This is currently an early version of the learning material and it will be updated over time with more detailed information.

A video will be provided with the learning material as well.

Be sure to subscribe to stay up-to-date with the latest updates.

Version 1.0

This is currently an early version of the learning material and it will be updated over time with more detailed information.

A video will be provided with the learning material as well.

Be sure to subscribe to stay up-to-date with the latest updates.

Need help mastering Machine Learning?

Don't just follow along — join me! Get exclusive access to me, your instructor, who can help answer any of your questions. Additionally, get access to a private learning group where you can learn together and support each other on your AI journey.