What is the purpose of the 'if __name__ == "__main__":' statement in Python programming?
The 'if name == "main":' statement in Python serves as a conditional block that allows code to be executed only if the script is run directly as the main program. When a Python file is imported as a module into another script, the Python interpreter sets the special variable name to the name of the module. However, if the script is executed directly, Python sets name to "main".
This construct is often used to define executable scripts and to separate reusable modules from executable scripts within the same file. By placing code inside the 'if name == "main":' block, you ensure that it only runs when the script is invoked directly, not when it is imported as a module.
For example, if you have a script containing various functions and you want to include some test cases or demonstration code, you would place that code within the 'if name == "main":' block to ensure it runs only when the script is run directly.
Understanding this concept is fundamental in any Python course for beginners, as it helps learners grasp the concept of module imports and script execution.
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