Importing Conventions in NumPy
Best Practices in Python

Importing Conventions in NumPy

Before using NumPy in your Python programs, you need to import the library correctly. In this tutorial, you'll learn the standard way to import NumPy, why we use np as an alias, and how to verify your installation.

Step 1: Import NumPy in Your Script

The recommended convention is:

import numpy as np

This imports the entire NumPy library and assigns it the alias np, which is a widely accepted short-form used in the Python community and NumPy documentation.

Why use as np?

• Improves code readability and conciseness
• Consistent with online examples and documentation
• Easy to type and remember

Step 2: Verify NumPy Import

To verify that NumPy is successfully imported and check the installed version, run the following:

import numpy as np
print(np.__version__)

This will output something like:

1.26.0

Common Errors to Watch Out For

• ModuleNotFoundError: If you get this error, NumPy is likely not installed. Install it using pip install numpy.
• Typo in import: Ensure correct casing. Python is case-sensitive. Use import numpy, not import Numpy.
• Alias not used consistently: If you import with as np, make sure you use np for all NumPy functions. For example: np.array(), not numpy.array().

Summary

• Use import numpy as np – it's the standard and recommended way.
• Verify your installation using print(np.__version__).
• Follow best practices to ensure clean, error-free code.

Quick Check

import numpy as np

a = np.array([1, 2, 3])
print("Array:", a)
print("NumPy Version:", np.__version__)

Array: [1 2 3]
NumPy Version: 1.26.0

You're now ready to start working with NumPy in your Python projects!