Importing Standard and External Modules in Python

Python is a versatile programming language with a rich ecosystem of modules that can be used to extend its functionality. Modules in Python are categorized into standard modules (built-in) and external modules (third-party libraries). This article demonstrates how to import these modules with examples.

1. Importing Standard Modules

Standard modules are part of Python's standard library. These modules are included in Python's default installation, and you don't need to install them separately.

Here are a few examples of using standard modules:

Example 1: Importing the math Module

    import math

    # Using the sqrt function
    result = math.sqrt(16)
    print("Square root of 16 is:", result)
        

Example 2: Importing the datetime Module

    import datetime

    # Getting the current date and time
    current_time = datetime.datetime.now()
    print("Current date and time:", current_time)
        

Example 3: Importing Specific Functions

    from math import pi, sin

    # Using the imported functions
    angle = pi / 2
    print("Sine of 90 degrees:", sin(angle))
        

2. Importing External Modules

External modules are not included with Python by default. They need to be installed using package managers like pip.

Here are some examples of using external modules:

Example 1: Importing the requests Module

First, install the module using the command: pip install requests.

    import requests

    # Sending a GET request
    response = requests.get("https://api.github.com")
    print("Response status code:", response.status_code)
        

Example 2: Importing the numpy Module

First, install the module using the command: pip install numpy.

    import numpy as np

    # Creating an array
    array = np.array([1, 2, 3, 4])
    print("Array:", array)
        

Example 3: Importing a Module with an Alias

    import matplotlib.pyplot as plt

    # Creating a simple plot
    plt.plot([1, 2, 3], [4, 5, 6])
    plt.title("Simple Plot")
    plt.show()
        

Conclusion

Understanding how to import standard and external modules is essential for leveraging Python's extensive functionality. While standard modules are readily available, external modules offer additional capabilities that require installation. By mastering both types of modules, you can enhance your Python projects significantly.