Random data generation in Python - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What is the purpose of the random module in Python?

The random module helps generate random numbers and select random items, useful for simulations, games, and testing.

beginner

How do you generate a random integer between 1 and 10 inclusive in Python?

Use random.randint(1, 10). It returns a random integer including both 1 and 10.

beginner

What function would you use to pick a random element from a list?

Use random.choice(your_list) to select one random item from the list.

intermediate

Explain the difference between random.random() and random.uniform(a, b).

random.random() returns a float between 0.0 and 1.0 (including 0.0 but excluding 1.0). random.uniform(a, b) returns a float between a and b, including decimals.

intermediate

Why might you use random.seed() in your program?

To make random results repeatable for testing or debugging by setting a starting point for the random number generator.

Which function generates a random integer between two numbers inclusive?

A random.choice(list)

B random.random()

C random.uniform(a, b)

D random.randint(a, b)

random.randint(a, b) returns an integer between a and b, including both.

What does random.choice() do?

A Returns a random float between 0 and 1

B Selects a random element from a sequence

C Generates a random integer

D Shuffles a list in place

random.choice() picks one random item from a list or other sequence.

How can you make random results repeatable in Python?

A Use random.randint()

B Use random.shuffle()

C Use random.seed() with a fixed number

D Use random.choice()

Setting random.seed() with a fixed number makes the random output the same every time.

Which function returns a random float between 0.0 and 1.0?

A random.random()

B random.uniform()

C random.randint()

D random.choice()

random.random() returns a float from 0.0 up to but not including 1.0.

What does random.shuffle() do to a list?

A Randomly rearranges the list items in place

B Returns a new sorted list

C Selects a random item

D Generates a random integer

random.shuffle() changes the order of items in the list randomly without creating a new list.

Describe how to generate a random integer and a random float in Python using the random module.

Think about functions for integers and floats separately.

Explain why and how you would use random.seed() in your code.

Consider when you want the same random output every time.