How can I store and execute functions dynamically using dictionaries in Python?

Function Storage and Execution with Dictionaries

In Python, functions are first-class objects, meaning they can be stored in data structures and passed around as variables. This opens up possibilities for dynamically executing functions based on external inputs.

One way to achieve function storage and execution is through dictionaries. Dictionaries are collections of key-value pairs, where keys can be any immutable object, including function names.

Storing Functions in a Dictionary

To store functions in a dictionary, assign the function object itself (not the result of calling the function) to the dictionary key. For example:

<code class="python">dispatcher = {'foo': foo, 'bar': bar}</code>

Executing Functions from the Dictionary

To execute a function stored in the dictionary, use the dictionary key to access the function object and then call the function normally. For instance:

<code class="python">dispatcher['foo']() # Calls the foo function</code>

Storing and Executing Multiple Functions in a List

If you want to store and execute multiple functions stored in a list, you can create a dictionary with keys that represent the desired execution scenarios. Then, you can use a helper function to iterate over the function list and execute each function. For example:

<code class="python">dispatcher = {'foobar': [foo, bar], 'bazcat': [baz, cat]}

def fire_all(func_list):
    for f in func_list:
        f()

fire_all(dispatcher['foobar']) # Executes both foo and bar functions</code>

Conclusion

Utilizing dictionaries for function storage and execution provides flexibility and code organization. It allows you to dynamically select and execute functions based on external inputs, making your code more efficient and maintainable.

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