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Python Python Basics (2015) Python Data Types Use .split() and .join()

Zac Serhus
Zac Serhus
741 Points
Posted by Zac Serhus
Zac Serhus
741 Points

How do I use the help() in python to better understand "split" and "join"? Both methods, but seem to format differently.

When typing 

help(split)

or 

help(join)

Errors were popping up. I think I got one to work with some combination, so hopefully the above examples don't confuse the question.

Also, could anyone shine some light on why the methods split() and join() formatted differently?

Thank you!!

2 Answers

Stuart Wright
Stuart Wright
41,118 Points
Stuart Wright
Stuart Wright
41,118 Points

These are string methods, so you can access the help using the following commands:

help(str.join)
help(str.split)
Zac Serhus
Zac Serhus
741 Points
Zac Serhus
Zac Serhus
741 Points

Got it. Thanks

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PLUS
asd asdf
Courses Plus Student 298 Points
asd asdf
asd asdf
Courses Plus Student 298 Points

In the python shell:

$ my_string = ''
$ help(my_string.split)

then

$ help("".join)

Edit: I've always wanted to know why .join() in python takes the arguments in a different spot than .split(), especially since in JavaScript, for example, it's the other way around and it works like ˙my_list.join(', ')˙. But I haven't been able to find an answer.

Zac Serhus
Zac Serhus
741 Points
Zac Serhus
Zac Serhus
741 Points

Hopefully we can find some enlightenment down the line.

Thank you