PCEP Control Flow, Loops, Lists and Logic Practice Question
Which list method modifies the list in place by adding all elements of another iterable to the end?
⚠ Common exam trap
Python Institute often tests the distinction between `append()` and `extend()` — the trap is that candidates confuse adding an iterable as a single element (append) with adding its individual elements (extend), especially when the iterable is a list or string.
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
✓
extend()
The `extend()` method modifies the list in place by appending all elements from the provided iterable (e.g., another list, tuple, or string) to the end. It does not return a new list; it mutates the original list directly, which is the behavior described in the question.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
+ operator
Why it's wrong here
Returns a new list, does not modify in place.
- ✗
insert()
Why it's wrong here
Inserts at a specific index.
- ✗
append()
Why it's wrong here
Adds a single element, not iterable contents.
- ✓
extend()
Why this is correct
Expands the list with elements from an iterable.
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Same concept, more angles
1 more way this is tested on PCEP
These questions test the same concept from different angles. Work through them to make sure you can recognise it however the exam phrases it.
Variation 1. Which two of the following list methods modify the original list in place? (Choose two.)
easy- ✓ A.sort()
- B.count()
- C.sorted()
- ✓ D.append()
- E.copy()
Why A: A is correct because the `sort()` method sorts the list in place, meaning it modifies the original list object without creating a new one. D is correct because `append()` adds an element to the end of the list, directly mutating the original list.
JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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.