How to Copy Lists in Python: Using the Copy Method

Learn how to create an actual copy of a list in Python rather than just referencing the original list. Discover why using list2 = list1 only creates a reference, and explore how to use the built-in copy() method to make a true copy of a list. Get practical examples to understand the difference and ensure changes in the copied list don't affect the original list.

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Python - Copy Lists

Copy a List

You cannot copy a list simply by typing list2 = list1, because list2 will only be a reference to list1. Any changes made to list1 will also reflect in list2.

There are ways to make an actual copy of the list. One way is to use the built-in list method copy().

Example

Make a copy of a list using the copy() method:


thislist = ["orange", "kiwi", "grape"]
mylist = thislist.copy()
print(mylist)
Output

['orange', 'kiwi', 'grape']

Another way to make a copy is to use the built-in list() method.

Example

Make a copy of a list using the list() method:


thislist = ["orange", "kiwi", "grape"]
mylist = list(thislist)
print(mylist)
Output

['orange', 'kiwi', 'grape']