Question 1easymultiple choice
Full question →- A
3
Why wrong: Incorrect: y does not change when x is reassigned.
- B
8
Why wrong: Incorrect: no addition occurs.
- C
5
Correct: y remains 5.
- D
None
Why wrong: Incorrect: print(y) outputs 5.
Question 147 of 510
Quick Answer
The answer is 5. This output occurs because integers in Python are immutable, meaning their value cannot be changed after creation, and variable assignment in Python works by binding a name to an object reference rather than to another variable. When `y = x` is executed, both `x` and `y` point to the same integer object 5; reassigning `x = 3` simply binds the name `x` to a new integer object, leaving `y` still referencing the original 5. On the Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer PCEP exam, this question tests your understanding of variable assignment immutability with integers, a core concept that often appears in questions about object references and reassignment. A common trap is assuming `y` will update when `x` changes, but since integers are immutable, the reference is copied, not the variable itself. Memory tip: think of variables as sticky notes on objects—changing one note doesn’t move the other.
PCEP Practice Question: Data Types, Variables, Basic I/O and Operators
This PCEP practice question tests your understanding of data types, variables, basic i/o and operators. Read the scenario carefully and evaluate each option against the stated constraints before committing to an answer. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
A programmer writes: x = 5; y = x; x = 3; print(y). What is the output?
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
5
Option C is correct because in Python, integers are immutable, and the assignment `y = x` copies the reference to the integer object 5, not the variable itself. When `x` is later reassigned to 3, `y` still points to the original integer object 5, so `print(y)` outputs 5.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
3
Why it's wrong here
Incorrect: y does not change when x is reassigned.
- ✗
8
Why it's wrong here
Incorrect: no addition occurs.
- ✓
5
Why this is correct
Correct: y remains 5.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
- ✗
None
Why it's wrong here
Incorrect: print(y) outputs 5.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: answer the scenario, not the keyword
Python Institute often tests the distinction between variable assignment and object mutation, trapping candidates who think `y` is an alias for `x` rather than a reference to the value at the time of assignment.
Trap categories for this question
Command / output trap
Incorrect: print(y) outputs 5.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
In Python, variables are names that reference objects in memory; assignment `y = x` binds `y` to the same object as `x`. Since integers are immutable, reassigning `x` to 3 creates a new integer object, leaving `y` unchanged. This behavior contrasts with mutable objects like lists, where modifying the object in place would affect all references.
KKey Concepts to Remember
- Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
- Find the constraint that changes the correct option.
- Eliminate answers that are true in general but not in this case.
TExam Day Tips
- Watch for words such as best, first, most likely and least administrative effort.
- Review why wrong options are wrong, not only why the correct option is correct.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A practitioner preparing for the PCEP exam encounters this exact type of scenario on the job. The correct answer here is not the most general option — it is the best answer for the specific constraint described. Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option. Real exam questions reward reading the full scenario before eliminating options, because the constraint defines which answer fits.
What to study next
Got this wrong? Here's your next step.
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
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Data Types, Variables, Basic I/O and Operators — study guide chapter
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FAQ
Questions learners often ask
What does this PCEP question test?
Data Types, Variables, Basic I/O and Operators — This question tests Data Types, Variables, Basic I/O and Operators — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: 5 — Option C is correct because in Python, integers are immutable, and the assignment `y = x` copies the reference to the integer object 5, not the variable itself. When `x` is later reassigned to 3, `y` still points to the original integer object 5, so `print(y)` outputs 5.
What should I do if I get this PCEP question wrong?
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
About these practice questions
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Last reviewed: Jun 30, 2026
This PCEP practice question is part of Courseiva's free Python Institute certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the PCEP exam.
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