[Tutor] exec('a=1') in functions

[Alan Gauld]

On 17/08/2021 17:37, Jan Kenin wrote:

> in python3.6 this works in the interpreter:
>  >>> b=1
>  >>> exec('a=%s'%b)
>  >>> a
> 1
> 
> but not in a function:

> How can I get the latter working?

Peter has already explained the changes in v3.

But I assume you fully understand the dangers
of using exec() in real code? It is an advanced
technique that should only be used as a last
resort. Certainly not for the trivial example
shown, but even in more complex cases there
is nearly always a way to code it directly
rather than using exec().

I apologize if this is patronising but the
tutor list is read by many beginners and
they may not realize what dangerous tools
exec/eval etc are. So the warning is almost
obligatory whenever they get mentioned.

-- 
Alan G
Author of the Learn to Program web site
http://www.alan-g.me.uk/
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