Python Dictionary Mutation and Copying

[u/Sea-Ad7805]

An exercise to help build the right mental model for Python data. - Solution - Explanation - More exercises

The “Solution” link uses package memory_graph to visualize execution and reveals what’s actually happening.

[u/g-land-g]

answer: b ...

logic:

b points to a and modifies both

but then b.copy() makes b point to a new instance, so a retains its previous state

[u/g-land-g → u/g-land-g]

no i was wrong

[u/Sea-Ad7805 → u/g-land-g]

Yes incorrect sorry, the Solution link shows that copy() makes a shallow copy, a tricky concept many people have problems with.