What is the Random Library?

In this section, we explore the Python `random` library, a built-in module that allows you to generate pseudo-random numbers for various probabilistic distributions and random selections. Learn how to leverage randomness for simulations, testing, and more—all through Python code.

Using the Random Library

Since the `random` library is part of Python's standard library, there's no need to install it separately. You can start using it directly in your code. Here are some examples of how to use the `random` library.

# Import the random library
import random

# Generate a random integer from 1 to 10
random_int = random.randint(1, 10)
print(random_int)

# Generate a random float between 0 and 1
random_float = random.random()
print(random_float)

# Choose a random element from a list
items = ['apple', 'banana', 'cherry']
random_choice = random.choice(items)
print(random_choice)
        

These basic functions are just the beginning. The `random` library provides a rich set of tools to control randomness, including functions like `shuffle`, `seed`, and more, which you can use to create simulations or games.

• Implement game mechanics that require randomness, such as shuffling a deck of cards, generating random enemy behavior, or creating random loot drops.
• In data science, shuffling data or creating random samples, which is important for training and testing machine learning models without bias.
• Understand probability distributions by simulating random events, like coin tosses or dice rolls.
• Testing code deterministically that involves the random library, by using random.seed

Do not use the random library for the following: