Python – Sort Lists

1. What Does “Sort List” Mean?

Sorting a list means arranging items in order.

For example:

• Numbers → small to big

• Words → A to Z

Python makes sorting very easy.

2. Sort List Using sort()

sort() arranges the list in ascending order by default.

Example (Numbers)

Output:

Example (Strings)

Output:

3. Sort List in Descending Order

Use reverse=True.

Example

Output:

4. Sort Without Changing Original List

Use sorted().

Example

👉 Original list stays the same.

5. Sort List by Length of Words

Use key.

Example

Output:

6. Sort List Case-Insensitive

Example

7. Sort Numbers and Strings (Common Mistake)

❌ Wrong

❌ Error: cannot compare number and text.

8. Common Beginner Mistakes

❌ Expecting sort() to return list

✔ Correct:

❌ Forgetting reverse=True

✔ Correct:

9. Simple Practice Examples

Example 1: Sort Marks

Example 2: Sort Cities A–Z

Example 3: Sort by Length

10. Summary (Sort Lists)

✔ sort() changes original list
✔ sorted() keeps original list
✔ Use reverse=True for descending
✔ Use key for custom sorting
✔ Sorting is very useful

📘 Perfect for Beginner eBook

This chapter is ideal for:

• Python beginner books

• School & college students

• Self-learners

If you want next, I can write:

• Copy Lists

• Join Lists

• Tuple Basics

• Set Basics

• List Exercises

Just tell me 😊