Python – Global Variables

1. What is a Global Variable?

A global variable is a variable that is:

  • Created outside a function

  • Can be used anywhere in the program

In simple words:
👉 A global variable is available for everyone.

2. Creating a Global Variable

You create a global variable outside any function.

Example

x = 10 # global variable

def my_function():
print(x)

my_function()
print(x)

Output:

10
10

Here:

  • x is created outside the function

  • It works inside and outside the function

3. Using Global Variable Inside a Function

A function can read a global variable without any problem.

Example

name = "Python" # global variable

def show_name():
print("Language:", name)

show_name()

Output:

Language: Python

4. Changing a Global Variable Inside a Function

To change a global variable inside a function,
you must use the global keyword.

Example

count = 5 # global variable

def increase():
global count
count = count + 1

increase()
print(count)

Output:

6

Without global, Python will give an error.

5. What Happens Without global Keyword?

❌ Wrong Example

x = 10

def change():
x = 20 # local variable

change()
print(x)

Output:

10

Here:

  • x inside function is local

  • Global x is not changed

6. Global vs Local Variable (Simple Difference)

Example

x = 100 # global

def test():
x = 50 # local
print(x)

test()
print(x)

Output:

50
100

7. When to Use Global Variables?

✔ When value is shared by many functions
✔ When value should stay same everywhere

❌ Avoid too many global variables
They can make code confusing.

8. Common Beginner Mistakes

❌ Forgetting global Keyword

total = 10

def add():
total = total + 5 # error

✔ Correct:

def add():
global total
total = total + 5

9. Simple Practice Examples

Example 1: Global Counter

counter = 0

def increase():
global counter
counter += 1

increase()
increase()
print(counter)

Example 2: Global Message

message = "Hello"

def show():
print(message)

show()

10. Summary (Global Variables)

✔ Global variables are created outside functions
✔ Can be used anywhere
✔ Use global to change value inside function
✔ Avoid overuse of global variables

📘 Perfect for Beginner eBook

This chapter is ideal for:

  • Python beginner books

  • School & college students

  • Self-learners

If you want next, I can write:

  • Python Local Variables

  • Python Functions (easy)

  • Python Scope (global vs local)

  • Practice questions with answers

Just tell me 😊

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