2.1.12

Data Types

Test yourself

Data Types

Every piece of data that is stored has a type. The type determines how it is stored and what you can do with the data.

Illustrative background for IntegerIllustrative background for Integer ?? "content

Integer

  • Whole numbers.
  • Examples:
    • 12, 0, -142.
Illustrative background for Float / RealIllustrative background for Float / Real ?? "content

Float / Real

  • Fractional numbers.
  • Examples:
    • 0.42, 1.00.
Illustrative background for StringIllustrative background for String ?? "content

String

  • Text data.
  • Example:
    • "Hello, world!".
Illustrative background for CharacterIllustrative background for Character ?? "content

Character

  • A single letter of text data.
  • Example:
    • 'a'.
Illustrative background for BooleanIllustrative background for Boolean ?? "content

Boolean

  • A True or False value.
  • Examples:
    • True.
    • False.

Casting

Casting is the process of converting data from one type to another.

Illustrative background for Reasons for castingIllustrative background for Reasons for casting ?? "content

Reasons for casting

  • One of the most common reasons for casting is output.
  • Output must be formatted as a string, and so we may need to convert a certain piece of data to a string.
  • All input also comes as a string, and must then be converted to other data types.
Illustrative background for Casting functionsIllustrative background for Casting functions ?? "content

Casting functions

  • Casting to a string can be done using the str function. E.g:
    • str(3) gives "3".
  • Casting to an integer can be done using the int function. E.g:
    • int(3.4) gives 3.
  • Casting to a float can be done using the float function. E.g:
    • float("3.4") gives 3.4.

Jump to other topics

1Computational Thinking & Algorithms

2Programming

3Hardware & Software

4Data

5The Internet

6Online Safety & Security

Go student ad image

Unlock your full potential with GoStudent tutoring

  • Affordable 1:1 tutoring from the comfort of your home

  • Tutors are matched to your specific learning needs

  • 30+ school subjects covered

Book a free trial lesson