Python Tuple Tutorial

A tuple in Python is an ordered, immutable collection of items. Once a tuple is created, its elements cannot be changed (no add, remove or update). Tuples are similar to lists but offer performance benefits and ensure data integrity.

Why Use Tuples?

To protect data from accidental modification.
Tuples are faster than lists.
Can be used as keys in dictionaries (lists cannot).
Used to represent fixed collections of items.

When to Use Tuples?

When the data should not change throughout the program.
When you want to ensure data integrity.
When you need a collection of heterogenous data with fixed size.
When you want to use the collection as a dictionary key.

Example 1: Creating a Tuple

t = (10, 20, 30)
print(t)

Create a tuple with 3 numbers and print it.

Output:

(10, 20, 30)

Example 2: Access Tuple Items

t = ('apple', 'banana', 'cherry')
print(t[1])

Access tuple element by index (index starts at 0).

Output:

banana

Example 3: Tuple Immutability

t = (1, 2, 3)
# t[0] = 10  # This will cause error
print(t)

Trying to change tuple item causes error (commented here).

Output:

(1, 2, 3)

Example 4: Single Item Tuple

t = (5,)
print(type(t))

Tuple with single item needs a trailing comma.

Output:

Example 5: Tuple Without Parentheses

t = 1, 2, 3
print(t)

Parentheses are optional when defining tuples.

Output:

(1, 2, 3)

Example 6: Tuple Packing and Unpacking

t = (10, 20, 30)
a, b, c = t
print(a, b, c)

Assign tuple values to variables using unpacking.

Output:

10 20 30

Example 7: Using Tuple as Dictionary Key

d = { (1,2): 'a', (3,4): 'b' }
print(d[(1,2)])

Tuples can be used as dictionary keys because they are immutable.

Output:

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