How does a python module search path work?

Question 1

general summary

Answer 1

In Python, module imports are guided by a set of directories called the module search path.

Question 2

Module Search Path

Default Values

Answer 2

Global: Configured at Python installation time.

User-specific: User’s home directory, described in the PYTHONHOME environment variable.

Question 3

Module Search Path

Stack-Up Mechanism

Answer 3

Command Line: Specified using the -m or -c flags.

Environment: Dictated by PYTHONPATH.

Standard Defaults: Follows a predetermined sequence.

Question 4

Module Search Path

Adjusting the Search Path

Answer 4

Manual Extension: Use sys.path to add locations programmatically.

User-Centered: Touched upon in the site module, useful for local modifications.

Question 5

Code Example: Customizing the Module Search Path

Answer 5

import sys

Display the current module search path
print(sys.path)

Add a temporary directory to the module search path
sys.path.append('/path/to/custom/modules')