What are the differences between Python’s "str" and "repr" methods?

Understanding Python’s "str" and "repr" Methods

In Python, both the str and repr methods are used to represent objects as strings, but they serve different purposes. This guide will explore the differences between these two methods and how they impact string representation.

Purpose of str Method

• Human-readable Representation: The str method is designed to provide a readable and user-friendly string representation of an object. It is used for displaying information to end users in a clear and understandable format.
• Usage: Typically used in print statements and string formatting operations. For example, print(object) will call the str method of the object.

Purpose of repr Method

• Developer-friendly Representation: The repr method provides a detailed string representation that includes information useful for developers. It aims to be unambiguous and, if possible, provide a string that could be used to recreate the object.
• Usage: Used for debugging and development purposes. For instance, calling repr(object) returns the output that is more suited for development and debugging.

Key Differences

1. Intended Audience: str is meant for end users, while repr is aimed at developers and debugging.
2. Output Format: str provides a more readable output, whereas repr often includes more detail and could be a valid Python expression.
3. Default Implementations: If not overridden, str and repr both use the default implementations from the base class object, which may not be very informative.

By understanding these differences, you can use str and repr more effectively in your Python code, ensuring that you provide appropriate representations for different contexts.