Quick Answer
The answer is x = 100 and int('100'). The first option directly assigns the integer literal 100 to the variable x, which is the most straightforward way to create an integer variable in Python. The second option uses the int() function to perform explicit type casting, converting the string '100' into an integer value of 100, which is equally valid and demonstrates understanding of data type conversion. On the Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer PCEP exam, this question tests your grasp of variable assignment and the int() constructor, often appearing alongside traps like using quotes around the number or omitting the function call. A common mistake is thinking x = "100" creates an integer, but that actually creates a string. Remember the memory tip: "No quotes for numbers, int() for strings" — if you see quotes, you need int() to turn it into an integer.
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.
Which TWO of the following are valid ways to create a variable with the integer value 100?
x = 0100
Why wrong: Leading zero is not allowed (Python 3).
x = 100.0
Why wrong: Creates a float, not integer.
x = int('100')
Converts string to integer.
x = 100
Standard integer assignment.
x = '100'
Why wrong: This creates a string, not an integer.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
x = int('100')
Option C is correct because the `int()` function converts a string containing a valid integer literal, such as '100', into an integer value of 100. This is a standard type-casting operation in Python that explicitly creates an integer from a string representation.
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.
x = 0100
Why it's wrong here
Leading zero is not allowed (Python 3).
x = 100.0
Why it's wrong here
Creates a float, not integer.
x = int('100')
Why this is correct
Converts string to integer.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
x = 100
Why this is correct
Standard integer assignment.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
x = '100'
Why it's wrong here
This creates a string, not an integer.
Common exam traps
Python Institute often tests the distinction between numeric literals (like `100`), string literals (like `'100'`), and type conversion functions (like `int()`), and the trap here is that candidates may mistakenly think a string with digits is automatically an integer or that a float literal like `100.0` is equivalent to an integer.
Detailed technical explanation
In Python, integers are immutable objects of the `int` class, and the `int()` constructor can parse strings in base 10 by default (or other bases with an optional second argument). The distinction between `int` and `float` is crucial for memory and precision: integers have arbitrary precision, while floats are IEEE 754 double-precision values. A real-world scenario is parsing user input from a text field, where `int()` ensures the value is treated as an integer for arithmetic operations, avoiding type errors.
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.
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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: x = int('100') — Option C is correct because the `int()` function converts a string containing a valid integer literal, such as '100', into an integer value of 100. This is a standard type-casting operation in Python that explicitly creates an integer from a string representation.
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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