Quick Answer
The answer is `<class 'float'>`. This is correct because Python’s true division operator `/` always returns a float, even when both operands are integers, as demonstrated by `3 / 2` producing `1.5` rather than `1`. The key technical concept here is that true division is distinct from floor division (`//`), which truncates the result to an integer; the `/` operator is designed to preserve the precise quotient, converting the result to a float type automatically. On the Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer PCEP exam, this tests your understanding of Python’s numeric type behavior and operator semantics, often appearing in questions that ask you to predict the output of simple arithmetic expressions. A common trap is assuming integer division yields an integer, but remember: in Python, a single slash means “float guaranteed.” For a quick memory tip, think of the slash as a “floating” line—when you see `/`, expect a float to float to the surface.
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.
Refer to the exhibit. x = 7 y = 2 result = x / y print(type(result))
What is the output of the code?
Refer to the exhibit. x = 7 y = 2 result = x / y print(type(result))
<class 'str'>
Why wrong: Not a string.
<class 'float'>
Division yields float.
<class 'int'>
Why wrong: Even if divisible, division returns float.
<class 'bool'>
Why wrong: Not boolean.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
<class 'float'>
The expression `3 / 2` performs true division in Python, which always returns a float even if both operands are integers. The result is `1.5`, and `type(1.5)` returns `<class 'float'>`. Therefore, option B is correct.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
<class 'str'>
Why it's wrong here
Not a string.
<class 'float'>
Why this is correct
Division yields float.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
<class 'int'>
Why it's wrong here
Even if divisible, division returns float.
<class 'bool'>
Why it's wrong here
Not boolean.
Common exam traps
Python Institute often tests the distinction between true division (`/`) and floor division (`//`), and the trap here is that candidates mistakenly think dividing two integers always yields an integer, forgetting that Python 3's `/` always returns a float.
Detailed technical explanation
In Python 3, the `/` operator is defined to return a float per the true division semantics (PEP 238). This differs from floor division (`//`), which returns an int when both operands are ints. Under the hood, Python's float type is a 64-bit double-precision IEEE 754 value, so even `4 / 2` yields `2.0` (a float). This behavior is critical in data science and financial calculations where unintended integer truncation must be avoided.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
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
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FAQ
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..
The correct answer is: <class 'float'> — The expression `3 / 2` performs true division in Python, which always returns a float even if both operands are integers. The result is `1.5`, and `type(1.5)` returns `<class 'float'>`. Therefore, option B is correct.
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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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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