Scope

Local Scope

A variable created inside a function belongs to the local scope of that function, and can only be used inside that function.

Example: A variable created inside a function is available inside that function:

the variable x is not available outside the function, but it is available for any function inside the function:

Examples: The local variable can be accessed from a function within the function:

A variable created in the main body of the Python code is a global variable and belongs to the global scope.

Examples: A variable created outside of a function is global and can be used by anyone:

If you operate with the same variable name inside and outside of a function, Python will treat them as two separate variables, one available in the global scope (outside the function) and one available in the local scope (inside the function):

Examples: The function will print the local x, and then the code will print the global x:

If you need to create a global variable, but are stuck in the local scope, you can use the global keyword.

Examples: If you use the global keyword, the variable belongs to the global scope:

Also, use the global keyword if you want to make a change to a global variable inside a function.

Examples: To change the value of a global variable inside a function, refer to the variable by using the global keyword:

You have learned Scope in simple terms. Let's proceed on to Next Topic.