Core Python / Basic Input and Output

1. Why is input and output so fundamental to computer programs?

   I/O enables interaction with the environment around a program/system. Without it, we know less than an observer of Schrödinger’s Cat.

2. What is the data type returned by input()? How can we convert that value to other types?

   input() returns a str (string) datatype. For built-in types such as int and float, we can use the built-in functions int() and float() to convert string values to those tpyes.

3. Why is readability important?

   Readability is crucial to understanding a program. Not only do we need this as we build the program, but also as we have to maintain (fix defects, add functionality) the program in the future.

4. How are comments identified in Python?

   Anything from # to the end of the line.

5. How many arguments does input() require?

   Zero. The function takes an optional argument that specifies the prompt to the user. The prompt tells the user the expected input. For a well-defined or simplistic interface, that may not be required.

6. How many arguments can print() have?

   Undetermined. It can have zero, but also many. Optional named arguments can also specify the characters printed between those argument values as well as the character printed at the end of all of them. Execute help("print").