Understanding Python Built-in Exceptions

Understanding Python Built-in Exceptions

In Python, exceptions are events that can alter the flow of control in a program. These errors can arise during program execution and need to be handled appropriately. Python provides a set of built-in exceptions, each meant to signal a particular type of error.

What are Built-in Exceptions?

Built-in exceptions in Python are predefined exceptions that can be raised during the execution of a program. You can catch these exceptions using try and except blocks, allowing your program to continue running even if an error occurs.

Common Built-in Exceptions

Here’s a table listing some major Python built-in exceptions along with a brief description:

Exception Name Description
BaseException The base class for all built-in exceptions.
Exception The base class for all non-exit exceptions.
ArithmeticError Base class for all errors related to arithmetic operations.
ZeroDivisionError Raised when a division or modulo operation is performed with zero as the divisor.
IndexError Raised when a sequence subscript is out of range.
KeyError Raised when a dictionary key is not found.
NameError Raised when a local or global name is not found.
TypeError Raised when an operation or function is applied to an object of inappropriate type.

Examples of Built-in Exceptions

1. BaseException

try:
    raise BaseException("This is a BaseException")
except BaseException as e:
    print(e)

2. ZeroDivisionError

try:
    result = 10 / 0
except ZeroDivisionError as e:
    print(e)

3. IndexError

my_list = [1, 2, 3]
try:
    element = my_list[5]
except IndexError as e:
    print(e)

Conclusion

Understanding built-in exceptions in Python is crucial for writing robust and error-resistant code. By effectively using try and except blocks, you can manage errors gracefully and maintain the flow of your program. Mastering these concepts will greatly enhance your programming skills in Python.

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