Lesson 2: Understanding Python Data Types

By PythonSchool Team | Updated: November 2025

In this lesson, we’ll explore the different data types in Python — the basic building blocks that determine the kind of values a variable can hold. Understanding data types is essential because they define how data behaves and how you can use it in your programs.

2.1 Numbers

Python supports two primary types of numbers: integers (whole numbers) and floating-point numbers (numbers with decimals).

# Integer example
x = 8
print(x)  # Output: 8

# Floating point example
y = 24.5
print(y)  # Output: 24.5
      

Tip: You can perform arithmetic operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division on numeric types.

2.2 Strings

A string represents text and is enclosed in either single (' ') or double (" ") quotes.

# Example of a string
name = "John Doe"
print(name)  # Output: John Doe
      

Strings can contain letters, numbers, and symbols. You can also use built-in string methods to manipulate them, such as converting to uppercase or checking their length.

2.3 Booleans

Booleans are logical values that can only be True or False. They are often used in comparisons and conditions.

x = 5
y = 8

print(x < y)   # Output: True
print(y == x)  # Output: False
      

When Python compares two values, it returns a Boolean result — either True if the condition is met or False if not.

2.4 Lists

A list is an ordered collection of items enclosed in square brackets [ ]. Lists can hold strings, numbers, or even other lists.

fruits = ["Orange 🍊", "Mango 🥭", "Apple 🍎", "Grapes 🍇"]
print(fruits)

numbers = [2, 8, 6, 7, 4]
print(numbers)
      

Each value in a list is called an element. Lists are flexible — you can update them, add new items, or slice them to access specific elements.

Stay connected and continue learning through our official Python learning channel:

Exercise

Create your own variables using each data type and print their values. Try changing the data and observing how Python responds!

Test Your Knowledge

Want to challenge yourself? Try our interactive quiz on Python Basics!