What is the difference between interactive mode and script mode in Python?
Python
Computer Science Engineering
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Alexandria
Interactive mode execute one command at a time and then give the output immediately. It The commands can’t be saved. The script mode allows you to write all commands in a program and commands are executed sequentially. Commands can be saved and executed again and again.
In Python, there are two main ways to run Python code: interactive mode and script mode.
Interactive mode is a mode where you can type Python code and it will be executed immediately. This is useful for testing out small pieces of code or for exploring the Python language. To enter interactive mode, you can open a Python interpreter or use a Python IDE that supports interactive mode.
Script mode is a mode where you can write Python code in a file and then run the file to execute the code. This is useful for writing larger pieces of code or for creating reusable code that can be run multiple times. To run a Python script, you can use the python
command or use a Python IDE that supports script mode.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between interactive mode and script mode:
Interactive mode
Feature | Interactive mode |
---|---|
How to enter | Open a Python interpreter or use a Python IDE that supports interactive mode. |
How to run code | Type Python code and press Enter. |
Code is stored | In memory. |
Code is executed | Immediately. |
Can be used for | Testing out small pieces of code or exploring the Python language. |
Script mode
Feature | Script mode |
---|---|
How to enter | Write Python code in a file and then run the file. |
How to run code | Run the file using the python command or use a Python IDE that supports script mode. |
Code is stored | In a file. |
Code is executed | When the file is run. |
Can be used for | Writing larger pieces of code or creating reusable code that can be run multiple times. |
In general, interactive mode is a good choice for testing out small pieces of code or for exploring the Python language. Script mode is a good choice for writing larger pieces of code or for creating reusable code that can be run multiple times.
Here are some examples of when you might use each mode:
Which mode you choose will depend on your specific needs.