How do I import other Python files?

Importing other Python files into your script is a great way to keep your code organized and reusable. Python makes this easy through its built-in module system. If you have functions or classes in another file, you can bring them into your current file with just a few lines of code.

1. Using import:

If you have a file named utils.py, you can import the entire file like this:

import utils

utils.say_hello()

This imports the whole file, and you access its functions or variables using dot notation.

2. Using from ... import:

To import specific parts from another file:

from utils import say_hello

say_hello()

Cleaner and more direct, especially if you only need one or two items.

3. Importing from a folder (package):

If your file is in a subfolder, you need an __init__.py file (can be empty) in that folder to treat it like a package:

project/

├── helpers/

│   ├── __init__.py

│   └── tools.py

Then import like this:

  from helpers import tools

4. Using relative or absolute paths:

You can also manage paths with Python’s sys module if your file isn’t in the same directory:

import sys

sys.path.append('/path/to/your/file')

import custom_module

Using imports helps keep your code DRY (Don't Repeat Yourself) and modular. Once you get the hang of it, importing files becomes second nature in Python development.