How to create a generator in Python?

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Jayant Kumar · Accepted Answer

In Python, you can create a generator using either a generator function or a generator expression. Here's how you can create a generator using each approach:

Generator Function: A generator function is defined like a regular function, but instead of using the return keyword, it uses the yield keyword to generate values one at a time. When the generator function is called, it returns a generator object, which can be iterated over. Here's an example:

def my_generator():
    yield 1
    yield 2
    yield 3

# Using the generator function
generator = my_generator()

# Iterating over the generator
for num in generator:
    print(num)

# Output: 1 2 3

In this example, the my_generator() function is a generator function that yields three values: 1, 2, and 3. When the generator function is called, it returns a generator object. The generator object can then be iterated over using a loop or other iterable-consuming constructs.

Generator Expression: A generator expression is a compact way to create a generator using a syntax similar to list comprehensions. It uses parentheses instead of square brackets and evaluates elements on-the-fly as they are requested. Here's an example:

generator = (x ** 2 for x in range(5))

# Iterating over the generator
for num in generator:
    print(num)

# Output: 0 1 4 9 16

In this example, the generator expression (x ** 2 for x in range(5)) generates the squares of numbers from 0 to 4. The generator object is then iterated over using a loop, and each value is printed.
Both approaches allow you to create generators in Python. Generator functions provide more flexibility as you can define complex logic and control the generation process using yield. Generator expressions, on the other hand, offer a more concise syntax for simple generator creation.
Generators are particularly useful when working with large or infinite sequences of data, as they generate values on-the-fly, saving memory and providing efficient iteration.

How to create a generator in Python?

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How to create a generator in Python?

Jayant Kumar @jayantkumar314

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