Python · Theory

list.sort()

Theory

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list.sort() works on a list. Lists can change. Many methods update the same list (append, pop, sort, insert) instead of returning a new one.

list.sort() — output — [70, 80, 90]. sort is in place. sorted() would return a new list.

Trap for list.sort() — append([1, 2]) nests a list. extend([1, 2]) adds 1 and 2. sort vs sorted is a viva favourite.

Diagram

index →  0       1       2
  list  → [Asha,  Ravi,  Neha]

Exam tip

In place or new list? Say it first, then one example.

# list.sort()
a = [70, 90, 80]
a.sort()
print(a)

list.sort() — output: [70, 80, 90]. sort is in place. sorted() would return a new list.