Working With Global Variables in Python Functions

A global variable is a variable that you can use from any part of a program, including within functions. Using global variables inside your Python functions can be tricky. You’ll need to differentiate between accessing and changing the values of the target global variable if you want your code to work correctly.

Global variables can play a fundamental role in many software projects because they enable data sharing across an entire program. However, you should use them judiciously to avoid issues.

In this video course, you’ll:

  • Understand global variables and how they work in Python
  • Access global variables within your Python functions directly
  • Modify and create global variables within functions using the global keyword
  • Access, create, and modify global variables within your functions with the globals() function
  • Explore strategies to avoid using global variables in Python code

What’s Included:

  • 10 Lessons
  • Video Subtitles and Full Transcripts
  • 2 Downloadable Resources
  • Accompanying Text-Based Tutorial
  • Interactive Quiz to Check Your Progress
  • Q&A With Python Experts: Ask a Question
  • Certificate of Completion

Downloadable Resources:

Related Learning Paths:

About Darren Jones

With 20 years as a teacher of music technology, Darren is keen to bring his skills to the Python table.

» More about Darren

Each tutorial at Real Python is created by a team of developers so that it meets our high quality standards. The team members who worked on this tutorial are:

← Browse All Courses