Python-Updating an Array Permanently After Calling it in a Function

Question

I have a question about how to update a string within a function after calling it. I want it to save after I call the function. It's the equivalent of pressing "control+s" to save an excel file after you edit it. Here's example code:

def function():
    x=['string'];y=input();x.append(y)

What I want have have happen is: If I call this function 3 times over a month, I'd like to have it read: x=['string',input1,input2,input3]

It currently will only store x 2 values maximum. For example: x=['string',input1]

I understand that even if there is a way to update this string/function, the fact that I have x=['string'] at the start will always change x to x=['string'] when I call it...Is there a built-in way to do this and have it update the way I want it to?

@jonrsharpe I have a list with thousands of values. Every time call a value in this list, I want to add it to another list and then delete it from the current list. So there would be an "Unused" list and a "Used" list. — user3658033
– user3658033, Commented Sep 22, 2015 at 15:51
@jonrsharpe you're right, I should use pop. And yes the program would restart. I just want to be able to update the list after I call the function every time. Is this possible without a database or excel sheet? — user3658033
– user3658033, Commented Sep 22, 2015 at 15:57
@jonrsharpe I'm not sure where to do research without accidentally stumbling on the answer. Is there a specific place you know of that would have this answer? — user3658033
– user3658033, Commented Sep 22, 2015 at 16:11

multivac · Accepted Answer · 2015-09-22 16:31:30Z

1

Store the x in a class or a closure. You also might want to return x or you won't be able to retrieve its values:

def foo():
    x = []
    def bar():
        y = input()
        x.append(y)
        return x
    return bar

b = foo()

# usage
In [8]: b()
aaa
Out[8]: ['aaa']

In [9]: b()
bbb
Out[9]: ['aaa', 'bbb']

In [10]: b()
ccc
Out[10]: ['aaa', 'bbb', 'ccc']

answered Sep 22, 2015 at 16:31

multivac

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