Standard library

Learn standard modules like math, random, datetime.

The standard library

The collection of modules that ships with Python is called the standard library. It requires no installation; you use it with import right away:

import math       # sqrt, pi, log
import random     # randint, choice
import datetime   # date, timedelta
import statistics # mean, median

These modules are maintained by the Python community and work on all platforms. Their functions are tested and documented.

They handle many tasks without installing third-party packages.

Common modules

Some modules in the standard library are used often in daily work. math for mathematical functions, random for randomness, datetime for dates and times, statistics for statistics:

import statistics
print(statistics.mean([1, 2, 3, 4]))
# 2.5

import datetime
print(datetime.date.today())
# 2025-01-15

These modules are reliable and fast in their domains. It is wise to check the standard library before turning to third-party packages.

Exercise Mean with statistics.mean

Write import statistics. Then write print(statistics.mean([1, 2, 3, 4])).

Show example solution

import statistics
print(statistics.mean([1, 2, 3, 4]))

Test yourself

Complete the random module

import ____
print(random.randint(1, 6))

Show answer

import random
print(random.randint(1, 6))

Which is in the standard library?
- requests
- numpy
- pandas
- math
Show answer

math — math ships with Python; the others are third-party.
Match the standard library

math

Square root, pi
random

Random number
datetime

Date and time
statistics

Mean, median

Next lesson: Summary - Modules

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