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Working with Dates and Times

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Python offers a robust datetime module for handling dates, times, and time intervals. This module provides classes and functions to manipulate date and time information effectively.

Core Classes and Functions

  • datetime.datetime: Represents a date and time with year, month, day, hour, minute, second, and microsecond components.
  • datetime.date: Represents a date with year, month, and day.
  • datetime.time: Represents a time with hour, minute, second, and microsecond.
  • datetime.timedelta: Represents a duration of time.
  • datetime.now(): Returns the current local date and time.
  • datetime.today(): Returns the current local date.

Creating Date and Time Objects

Python

import datetime

# Create a datetime object
now = datetime.datetime.now()

# Create a date object
today = datetime.date.today()

# Create a time object
current_time = datetime.time()

Formatting Dates and Times

The strftime() method is used to convert a datetime object into a formatted string:

Python

formatted_date = now.strftime("%Y-%m-%d %H:%M:%S")
print(formatted_date)

Parsing Date and Time Strings

The strptime() method is used to convert a string into a datetime object:

Python

date_string = "2023-11-24"
date_object = datetime.datetime.strptime(date_string, "%Y-%m-%d")

Timedeltas

Timedeltas represent the difference between two dates or times. They can be used for calculations and comparisons.

Python

start_time = datetime.datetime(2023, 11, 24, 10, 0)
end_time = datetime.datetime(2023, 11, 24, 12, 30)
time_difference = end_time - start_time
print(time_difference)

Additional Features

  • Time zones: Using the pytz library.
  • Date arithmetic: Performing calculations with dates and times.
  • Formatting options: Customizing date and time output.

By effectively using the datetime module, you can handle various date and time-related tasks in your Python applications.

What is the primary module for handling dates and times in Python?

The datetime module.

Can I create a datetime object with specific values?

Yes, use datetime.datetime(year, month, day, hour, minute, second, microsecond).

What is a timedelta?

A timedelta represents a duration of time.

How do I format a datetime object as a string?

Use the strftime() method with format codes.

How do I convert a string to a datetime object?

Use the strptime() method with the correct format string.

How do I calculate the difference between two datetime objects?

Subtract one datetime object from another to get a timedelta.

When should I use datetime objects?

For precise date and time calculations and manipulations.

How can I improve readability of date and time code?

Use clear variable names and meaningful format strings.

What are some common pitfalls when working with dates and times?

Time zone differences, daylight saving time adjustments, and incorrect format strings.

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