How to Properly Return API Results in Separate Values Using Python and Coingecko API

Discover how to correctly retrieve and display cryptocurrency prices from the Coingecko API using Python. Get step-by-step guidance on resolving common errors.
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Understanding the Problem: Accessing Cryptocurrency Prices

If you're working with APIs in Python, particularly the Coingecko API, you might run into situations where the data returned doesn't match your expectations. In this guide, we will go over a specific issue where the output from the API call doesn't display the necessary values correctly.

The Scenario

You are trying to pull the current price of Bitcoin in USD using the Coingecko API through the following code:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

However, instead of displaying the expected output, you receive a confusing error message, making it difficult to see the cryptocurrency name and its price.

Expected Output

Your expected output should be something like:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

So, the main question arises: How can we extract the token name and its price in USD separately?

The Solution: Making Correct API Calls

The issue stems from how you are calling the get_price method from the Coingecko API. The method should be properly called to retrieve the prices in a usable format.

Correcting Your API Call

To resolve this, you have two options:

Directly Print the API Call:

Instead of just referencing the method without calling it, you should call it directly within the print function:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Assign the Output to a Variable:

Alternatively, you can store the output of the API call in a variable before printing:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Extracting Data

Once you have the output correctly displayed, if you want to display just the cryptocurrency name and its price in a clear format, follow these steps:

Assign the API's output to a variable.

Extract the relevant data from the dictionary.

Here's how you can do it:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Conclusion

By making minor adjustments to how you call the API method, you can effectively retrieve and display cryptocurrency prices.

Key Takeaway

Always call a method to execute it rather than just referencing it.

Storing the output in a variable can help you manipulate and display specific data easily.

Armed with this knowledge, you're now better equipped to handle API responses and extract the needed information efficiently. Happy coding!