what is the difference between del a[:] and a = [] when I want to empty a list called a in python? -

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• different ways of deleting lists 6 answers

please efficient way of emptying list?

i have list called a = [1,2,3]. delete content of list write a = [ ]. came across function in python called del. want know if there difference between del [:] , use.

there difference, , has whether list referenced multiple places/names.

>>> = [1, 2, 3] >>> b = >>> del a[:] >>> print(b) []  >>> = [1, 2, 3] >>> b = >>> = [] >>> print(b) [1, 2, 3] 

using del a[:] clears existing list, means anywhere it's referenced become empty list.

using a = [] sets a point new empty list, means other places original list referenced remain non-empty.

the key understanding here realize when assign variable, makes name point thing. things can have multiple names, , changing name points doesn't change thing itself.