File Path Basics in Python

A file name tells you what a file is called, but a file path tells Python where to find it. This Block introduces file names and extensions, relative and absolute paths, parent-folder navigation with .., and the current working directory. You will learn how to follow paths from Python's starting location and check that location with os.getcwd().

What you will learn:

• Recognize file names, extensions, folders, and complete file paths
• Tell the difference between relative and absolute paths
• Navigate from the current folder with . and to a parent folder with ..
• Check Python's current working directory with os.getcwd()
• Spot common path mistakes involving folder order, capitalization, spaces, and extensions

Leave with a clear method for reading paths, building simple relative paths, and checking Python's starting location before you begin opening file contents.