Explain the difference between local and global variables

The difference is the scope. A local variable can only be seen within its scope, for example a variable defined in a method can only be seen within this method. However, a global variable can be seen by everything within the program.y = 1 def foo(): x = 5 def bar(): print(x) # Doesn't work print(y) # Prints 1

PC
Answered by Peter C. Python tutor

1287 Views

See similar Python Mentoring tutors

Related Python Mentoring answers

All answers ▸

Whats is the difference between a function and a procedure?


Explain why creating a list of several instances of one element using something like my_list = [a] * 5 can result in strange behaviour


What can I do with Python?


Why would I use dictionaries instead of a list?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning