Python Random Module

The random module in Python provides a set of functions for generating random numbers. These functions can be used to generate random integers, floating-point numbers, and to randomize the order of lists.

Syntax

The random module has several functions. Some of the commonly used ones are:

import random
random.random()
random.randint(a,b)
random.choice(seq)
random.shuffle(seq)

Example

import random

# Generate a random float between 0 and 1
print(random.random())

# Generate a random integer between 1 and 10
print(random.randint(1, 10))

# Randomly pick an element from a list
my_list = ["apple", "banana", "cherry"]
print(random.choice(my_list))

# Shuffle a list randomly
random.shuffle(my_list)
print(my_list)

Output

0.6356143427728484
5
banana
['banana', 'cherry', 'apple']

Explanation

• random.random() generates a random float between 0 and 1.
• random.randint(a, b) generates a random integer between a and b (inclusive).
• random.choice(seq) returns a randomly chosen element from seq.
• random.shuffle(seq) shuffles the elements of seq randomly.

Use

The random module can be used in various applications such as games, simulations, and cryptography. It is also useful for generating test data and randomizing the order of lists.

Important Points

• The random module uses a pseudo-random number generator, which means that the numbers generated are not truly random but appear to be so.
• The random module should not be used for generating secure random numbers, such as for cryptographic applications. For this, you should use the secrets module instead.
• To generate the same sequence of random numbers repeatedly, you can use the random.seed() function.

Summary

The random module in Python is used to generate random numbers. It provides functions for generating random integers, floating-point numbers, and choosing elements randomly from a list. It is useful for games, simulations, and generating test data, among others. However, it should not be used for generating secure random numbers.