python sort list and return code example

Example 1: sort array not in place python

# sorting lists in python

l = [2, 3, 1, 4]

new_l = sorted(l)  # returns sorted list without modifying original
l.sort() # sorts list inplace

Example 2: sorted vs sort python

# The sort() function will modify the list it is called on. 
# The sorted() function will create a new list 
# containing a sorted version of the list it is given.

list = [4,8,2,1]
list.sort()
#--> list = [1,2,4,8] now

list = [4,8,2,1]
new_list = list.sorted()
#--> list = [4,8,2,1], but new_list = [1,2,4,8]