Python Dictionary pop() Method

value = my_dict.pop(key, default) removes a specified key and returns its value. Without a default, a missing key raises KeyError; with a default, that value is returned instead.

See the complete Dictionary Methods table for the other dictionary operations in this cluster.

my_dict={'a':'One','b':'Two','c':'Three'}
x=my_dict.pop('b')
print(x)
print(my_dict)

Two
{'a': 'One', 'c': 'Three'}

my_dict={'a':'One','b':'Two','c':'Three'}
x=my_dict.pop('d')
print(x)
print(my_dict)

 KeyError: 'd'

Providing default value if key is not available

my_dict = {'a': 'One', 'b': 'Two', 'c': 'Three'}
value = my_dict.pop('d', 'Key Not Found')  # No error
print(value)  # Output: Key Not Found

my_dict = {'a': 1, 'b': 2, 'c': 3}
while my_dict:
    key, value = my_dict.popitem()
    print(f"Removed {key}: {value}")

Removed c: 3
Removed b: 2
Removed a: 1

Pop Multiple Items Safely Using a Loop

my_dict = {'x': 10, 'y': 20, 'z': 30}
keys_to_remove = ['x', 'y', 'a']  # 'a' doesn't exist
for key in keys_to_remove:
    value = my_dict.pop(key, 'Key not found')
    print(f"Key: {key}, Value: {value}")
print(my_dict)

Key: x, Value: 10
Key: y, Value: 20
Key: a, Value: Key not found
{'z': 30}

Subhendu Mohapatra

Author & Instructor at plus2net

I write and maintain practical tutorials on Python, PHP, SQL, JavaScript, HTML, jQuery, and web development at plus2net. The tutorials focus on clear explanations, working examples, and code that readers can test and adapt while learning.

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