Data Types and I/O in Python

Table of Contents

1. Challenge

   Explore the starter Python CLI project

   Welcome to the lab. You are going to complete a small Python command-line application that closely follows the teaching flow from the lesson: start with variables, perform simple arithmetic, understand int and float, convert between text and numbers, and finally build an interactive age-in-decades script. info> This lab experience was developed by the Pluralsight team using an internally developed AI tool. All sections were verified by human experts for accuracy prior to publications. However, content may still contain errors or inaccuracies, and we recommend independent verification.
   
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2. Challenge

   Use variables and arithmetic

   This step focuses on the first ideas introduced in the lesson: variables and arithmetic. Before a program can ask the user for input or print a polished message, it has to store values and compute with them.

3. Challenge

   Work with int, float, and conversion

   In this step, you will use the rectangle example to introduce Python's numeric data types. This step builds that same bridge by helping the project recognize whole numbers versus decimals and by preparing text input for later math.

4. Challenge

   Build the age-in-decades workflow

   This step assembles the central program featured in the lesson: the age-in-decades calculator. Up to this point, you have worked on the pieces independently so each concept stayed clear.

5. Challenge

   Connect the demo and the script menu

   The final step turns the project into a cohesive learning tool. The lesson begins with a shell demonstration and then moves into a longer script, so your finished application should support both experiences. ### Run the Application

   Now that you've completed all of the functions, it's time to run the program and verify that everything works together.

   In the Terminal tab, run the application:

   python3 main.py
   

   You should see a menu similar to:

   Python Foundations Demo
   1. Shell-style variables and types demo
   2. Age in decades calculator
   Choose an option:
   

   Test both menu options:

   1. Enter 1 to view the variables, calculations, and type demonstrations.
   2. Enter 2 to calculate an age in decades and remaining years.
      • Try a few different inputs:
        • A valid age, such as 42
        • An age with surrounding spaces, such as 42
        • An invalid value, such as abc
        • A negative age, such as -5

   Confirm that: The shell demo displays the rectangle information and type examples. The age calculator displays the correct decades and remaining years.

   Invalid input shows the message:

   Please enter a whole number age.
   

   If everything works as expected, you've successfully completed the Python Foundations demo project and connected all of the helper functions into a working application.