How to Convert a String Representation of a List into an Actual List in Python

Learn how to transform a string representation of a list into a real Python list, enabling efficient data manipulation and use in your Python programs.
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How to Convert a String Representation of a List into an Actual List in Python

As a Python developer, you often handle different data types. One common requirement is converting a string representation of a list into an actual list. This task arises frequently when dealing with data inputs, file I/O operations, or even network communication.

Using the eval() Function

Python's built-in eval() function can evaluate a string containing a Python expression, making it a straightforward method to convert a string to a list. However, it should be used with caution due to potential security risks.

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Caution: Because eval() executes the code within the string, if the input is untrusted, it can pose security risks.

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Converting a String of Characters into a List

If your string is a sequence of characters, converting it into a list is straightforward using Python's list() function.

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Summary

Choosing the appropriate method enhances the security and efficiency of your Python applications.