Insert a number in string - Python

We are given a string and a number, and our task is to insert the number into the string. This can be useful when generating dynamic messages, formatting output, or constructing data strings. For example, if we have a number like 42 and a string like "The number is", then the output will be "The number is 42". Let's explore some common and efficient methods of doing it with examples:

Using f-Strings

Introduced in Python 3.6, f-strings offer a fast and readable way to embed variables directly into strings. They’re evaluated at runtime and are considered the most efficient method.

n = 42
res = f"The number is {n}"
print(res)

The number is 42

Explanation: The f before the string allows expressions inside {} to be evaluated. It’s concise, readable, and performs faster than older methods.

Using String Concatenation

This is the most basic method where we convert the number to a string and join it with the original string using the + operator.

s = "The number is "
n = 42
res = s + str(n)
print(res)

The number is 42

Explanation:

• str(n) converts the integer n to a string, allowing it to be concatenated with the original string s.
• + operator is used to concatenate the two strings, resulting in the combined string.

Using String Formatting (% operator)

It's a classical method that uses format specifiers like %d for integers, allowing the insertion of numbers at specific placeholders.

s = "The number is %d"
n = 42
res = s % n
print(res)

The number is 42

Explanation: %d in the string acts as a placeholder for an integer, which is replaced with the value of num.

Using str.format() Method

This method allows us to insert variables into a string by placing curly braces {} as placeholders. This method offers greater flexibility and readability compared to older formatting methods like % operator, supporting both positional and keyword arguments

s = "The number is {}"
n = 42
res = s.format(n)
print(res)

The number is 42

Explanation: Curly braces {} serve as placeholders, and format(num) replaces them with the number, resulting in a clean and formatted string.

Also read: str.format(), f-strings.