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Data Type

Definition

A data type is a classification of the type of data that a variable or expression can hold. It determines the operations that can be performed on the data and how the data is stored in memory.

Analogy

Think of a data type as a container for information, just like different types of containers you use in daily life. For example, if you want to store clothes, you would use a wardrobe (data type), and if you want to store food items, you would use a refrigerator (another data type). Each container has its own set of rules and limitations depending on what it can hold.

Related terms

String: A string is a specific type of data type that represents text or characters. It is enclosed within quotation marks and can contain both words and numbers.

Integer: An integer is another data type that represents whole numbers without any decimal points. Unlike strings, integers do not require quotation marks.

Float: Float is yet another data type used to represent numbers with decimal points. It allows for more precise calculations compared to integers.