How to Call a Variable from Another Function in Python

A variable is a way to store values in the Python programming language for later use in a program. These variables are often used within functions, making it necessary to access them from another function. This article will explore Python methods for calling variables from another function.

In Python, you can call a variable from another function in one of two ways:

• Global variables
• Return statements

Let’s take a closer look at each technique—

Global variables

A global variable is a special type of computer variable that can be accessed from anywhere in a program. This feature of global variables allows its value to be retrieved from any other function in the program, regardless of where the variable is originally declared. In other words, if you designate a variable as a global variable in one function, its value can be accessed from any other function in the program.

Algorithm

You can use the code snippet above to call a global variable from another function.

• Define the first function, first_function() – This function declares a global variable, variable. The global keyword specifies that the variable is global and can be accessed from anywhere in the program.
• Assign a value to the global variable, variable – Assign “I am a global variable” to variable.
• Define the second function, second_function() – This function prints the value of the global variable, variable.
• Call the first function, first_function() – This calls the first function, which declares the global variable, variable.
• Call the second function, second_function() – This calls the second function, which prints the value of the global variable, variable.

Here is an example –

def first_function():
global variable
variable = "I am a global variable"

def second_function():
print(variable)

first_function()
second_function()

The output will be –

I am a global variable

Be careful when using global variables, as they can be changed from any function.

Return Statement

Another way to call a variable from another function is through the use of a return statement. The return statement is a valuable tool that allows you to pass a value from within a function to an external location, such as a variable. Essentially, it allows you to store the returned value from a function into a specified variable.

Algorithm

• Define the first function, first_function() , which returns the value “I am a returned variable.” The return statement is used to return a value from a function.
• Define the second function, second_function() , which stores the return value of the first function in the variable variable.
• Call the first function, first_function() , which calls the first function and stores its return value in the variable variable.
• Print the value of the variable variable , which uses the print statement to print the value of the variable variable.
• Call the second function, second_function() , which calls the second function and executes the code within it.

Here is an example –

def first_function():
return "I am a returned variable"

def second_function():
variable = first_function()
print(variable)

second_function()

The output will be –

I am a returned variable

This approach is considered superior to using global variables because it gives the user more control over the values passed between functions and reduces the possibility of accidentally modifying the variable.

Conclusion

In summary, when calling a variable from another function in Python, there are two viable options: using global variables or using a return statement. The preferred approach between these two options depends on the requirements of the specific scenario. However, using a return statement is generally considered to be the superior approach because it provides greater control over the values passed between functions.