How to Import a File in Python

To import a file in Python, you can use the ‘import’ keyword followed by the name of the module file (without mentioning the file extension). For instance, if your module file is named my_module.py, you only import my_module.

“import” syntax

import modulename

Example

Create a new file called sum.py and add the following code inside the file.

def add(a, b):
  c = a + b
  return c

The sum.py file has one function called add(), which takes two parameters and returns the sum of the provided arguments.

The sum.py file is a module in the above file, and add() is its method.

We can import the sum module using the “import sum” inside the other file. But first, let’s import the app.py file, which is in the same directory as the sum.py file.

# app.py

import sum

So, the import syntax is the following.

In our example, modulename = sum.

Now, we can use the add() function of the sum module.

# app.py

import sum

print(sum.add(3, 4))

Output

7

If you intend to use the add() function more than once in your file, you can assign it to a local name.

# app.py

import sum

summation = sum.add
print(summation(3, 4))

Output

7

Importing Specific Functions or Variables

In Python, you can import specific functions, classes, or variables from a module rather than the whole module. This can make your code more concise and clear about what is being used from the external module.

Here’s how you can do this:

Importing Specific Functions

If you have a module named mymodule.py with the following content:

def my_function():
  print("This is my function!")

def another_function():
  print("This is another function!")

You can import only my_function from this module in another file like this:

from mymodule import my_function

my_function() 

Importing Specific Variables

Similarly, if you have some variables in the module:

CONSTANT_VALUE = 42

another_variable = "Hello, World!"

You can import a specific variable:

from mymodule import CONSTANT_VALUE

print(CONSTANT_VALUE)

Importing with an Alias

You can also use aliases if there are naming conflicts or if you want to shorten a long name:

from mymodule import my_function as mf

mf() 

That’s it.

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Krunal

Krunal Lathiya is a seasoned Computer Science expert with over eight years in the tech industry. He boasts deep knowledge in Data Science and Machine Learning. Versed in Python, JavaScript, PHP, R, and Golang. Skilled in frameworks like Angular and React and platforms such as Node.js. His expertise spans both front-end and back-end development. His proficiency in the Python language stands as a testament to his versatility and commitment to the craft.