PCEP Computer Programming and Python Fundamentals Practice Question
A Python script contains the following line: x = 5. Later in the script, the programmer wants to check if x is an integer. Which of the following is the BEST way to perform this check?
⚠ Common exam trap
Python Institute often tests the distinction between `type()` and `isinstance()`, and the trap here is that candidates may think `type(x) == int` is equivalent to `isinstance(x, int)`, not realizing that `isinstance` handles inheritance and is the Pythonic standard.
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
✓
if isinstance(x, int):
`isinstance(x, int)` is the recommended way to check if a variable is an instance of a specific class in Python. It handles inheritance correctly (e.g., if `x` were a subclass of `int`) and is more robust than directly comparing types with `type()`. This aligns with Python's duck typing philosophy and is the standard approach in professional code.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
if isinstance(x, int):
Why this is correct
Correct and Pythonic.
- ✗
if x is integer:
Why it's wrong here
Invalid syntax.
- ✗
if x == 'integer':
Why it's wrong here
Compares value, not type.
- ✗
if type(x) == int:
Why it's wrong here
Works but not recommended; isinstance is preferred.
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