PCEP Computer Programming and Python Fundamentals Practice Question

Exhibit

Refer to the exhibit.

```
my_list = [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
my_list[1:3] = [10, 20]
print(my_list)
```

What is the output of the code in the exhibit?

⚠ Common exam trap

Python Institute often tests the distinction between `extend()` and `append()`, and the precise behavior of step slicing, leading candidates to mistakenly think `extend()` inserts elements at a specific position or that `[::2]` removes elements rather than selecting every second one.

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

✓

[1, 10, 20, 4, 5]

The code uses list slice assignment to replace the elements at indices 1 and 2 (the second and third elements) with the list [10, 20]. Starting from [1, 2, 3, 4, 5], after the assignment lst[1:3] = [10, 20], the list becomes [1, 10, 20, 4, 5]. This matches option B.

Answer analysis

Option-by-option breakdown

For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.

✗
[1, 2, 10, 20, 5]
Why it's wrong here
Indices incorrect: slice 1:3 replaces elements at positions 1 and 2.
✓
[1, 10, 20, 4, 5]
Why this is correct
Correct replacement.
✗
[1, 2, 3, 10, 20, 4, 5]
Why it's wrong here
That would be insertion, not replacement.
✗
[1, 10, 20, 3, 4, 5]
Why it's wrong here
Indices incorrect.

Go deeper

PCEP Computer Programming and Python Fundamentals Practice Question

Exhibit

Why each option matters

Option-by-option breakdown

Related to this question