Python Text Formatting Rows

Python text formatting is an essential skill needed in programming as it enables you to format and print output strings in a readable and organized manner. In this article, we will explore how to format rows in Python using different techniques.

Using the ljust(), rjust(), and center() Methods

One way to format rows in Python is by using the ljust(), rjust(), and center() methods. These methods are available for all string objects and offer a convenient way to pad strings with spaces.

The ljust() method left-aligns the string and pads it with spaces on the right. The rjust() method does the opposite and right-aligns the string, padding it with spaces on the left. The center() method centers the string and pads it with spaces on both sides.

# Example
name = "John"
age = "35"
job = "Developer"
print(name.ljust(10) + age.ljust(10) + job.ljust(10))
print(name.rjust(10) + age.rjust(10) + job.rjust(10))
print(name.center(10) + age.center(10) + job.center(10))

This code will output:

John       35         Developer  
      John         35Developer
   John      35        Developer    

Using the format() Method

Another way to format rows in Python is by using the format() method. This method provides a flexible way of formatting strings and can be used to align strings, insert variables, and format numbers.

# Example
name = "John"
age = "35"
job = "Developer"
print("{:<10}{:<10}{:<10}".format(name, age, job))
print("{:^10}{:^10}{:^10}".format(name, age, job))
print("{:>10}{:>10}{:>10}".format(name, age, job))

This code will output:

John      35        Developer 
   John    35     Developer   
      John         35Developer

Using the % Operator

The % operator is an older way of formatting strings in Python. It can be used to format strings in a similar way as the format() method. However, it is less flexible and requires more code.

# Example
name = "John"
age = "35"
job = "Developer"
print("%-10s%-10s%-10s" % (name, age, job))
print("%10s%10s%10s" % (name, age, job))
print("%*s%*s%*s" % (-10, name, -10, age, -10, job))

This code will output:

John      35        Developer 
      John         35Developer
      John         35Developer

In conclusion, formatting rows in Python is a useful skill for any programmer. By using different techniques like the ljust(), rjust(), and center() methods, the format() method, or the % operator, you can easily format strings and print them in a readable and organized manner.