4.7 - Adding and Deleting Columns
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Adding a New Column
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Today, we will learn how to add a new column to our DataFrames in Pandas. Can anyone tell me why we might want to add a new column to our dataset?
To include more information about our data!
Exactly! For example, let's say we want to add a 'Score' column to our existing DataFrame. We can do that by simply using the syntax: `df['Score'] = [85, 90, 95]`. This assigns scores to each row. Remember this simple phrase: 'Assigning values makes columns thrive!'
What if we want to add more scores later?
Great question! You can update the column values anytime by reassigning it. Just keep in mind, the lengths must match the number of rows in the DataFrame.
What happens if the lengths are different?
If they are different, Pandas will raise an error. Now, let's summarize: to add a column, use `df['Column_Name'] = values`. Make sure the number of values matches your rows!
Removing a Column
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Now, let's discuss deleting a column. Can anyone suggest how we might do this in Pandas?
Maybe we use a function to remove it?
Correct! We can use the `drop()` method. For example, `df.drop('Score', axis=1, inplace=True)` removes the 'Score' column. Does anyone remember what `axis=1` indicates?
It means we are referring to a column, right?
Exactly! And `inplace=True` means we make the change directly to our original DataFrame. If we set `inplace=False`, it will return a new DataFrame without the column but won't change the original. Let's repeat: to delete a column, remember 'Drop it like itβs hot!' by using `df.drop('Column_Name', axis=1, inplace=True)`.
Can we remove multiple columns at once?
Absolutely! Simply pass a list of column names to the `drop()` function, like this: `df.drop(['Column1', 'Column2'], axis=1, inplace=True)`.
So if we wanted to remove 'Score' and 'Age' columns, we could do it all at once?
You got it! Letβs summarize: to delete a column, use `df.drop('Column_Name', axis=1, inplace=True)`. Now, any questions before we wrap up?
Introduction & Overview
Read summaries of the section's main ideas at different levels of detail.
Quick Overview
Standard
In this section, you'll learn how to enhance your data by adding new columns and manage your data effectively by removing unnecessary ones. Both actions are crucial for data manipulation in Pandas.
Detailed
Adding and Deleting Columns
The section on adding and deleting columns focuses on two fundamental operations when managing data in a DataFrame using Pandas. Adding a new column is as straightforward as assigning a list or a Series to a new column label. For example, df['Score'] = [85, 90, 95] adds a new column named 'Score'. On the other hand, removing a column can be accomplished with df.drop('Score', axis=1, inplace=True), where you specify axis=1 to indicate that you want to drop a column (as opposed to a row, which would be axis=0). The inplace=True argument ensures that the changes apply directly to the original DataFrame without needing to create a new variable. Understanding these operations is crucial for data preparation, especially in machine learning contexts.
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Adding a New Column
Chapter 1 of 2
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Chapter Content
β Add a New Column:
df['Score'] = [85, 90, 95]
Adds a new column called Score to every row.
Detailed Explanation
To add a new column to a DataFrame in Pandas, you can simply assign a list of values to a new column name in the DataFrame. For example, df['Score'] = [85, 90, 95] creates a new column called Score and populates it with the specified values (85, 90, 95) for each corresponding row. It's important that the number of values in the list matches the number of rows in the DataFrame; otherwise, you will encounter an error.
Examples & Analogies
Imagine you have a classroom with students and you want to keep track of their scores on a test. You can think of the DataFrame as a classroom roster on a board. Each row represents a student, and by adding a new score column, you're essentially noting down the marks each student received right next to their names.
Removing a Column
Chapter 2 of 2
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Chapter Content
β Remove a Column:
df.drop('Score', axis=1, inplace=True)
β axis=1: remove a column (axis=0 removes a row)
β inplace=True: apply the change directly to the DataFrame
Detailed Explanation
To remove a column from a DataFrame, you can use the drop() method. The method requires the name of the column to be removed, the axis parameter to indicate that you want to drop a column (use axis=1), and inplace=True to modify the original DataFrame instead of returning a new one. For instance, df.drop('Score', axis=1, inplace=True) removes the Score column from the DataFrame, updating it directly.
Examples & Analogies
Think of the DataFrame as a physical file where you keep all your students' information. If you decide that you no longer want to keep track of test scores, you can simply take that piece of paper out of the file. Using the drop() method is like removing that score sheet β it's no longer part of your file of student records.
Key Concepts
-
Adding a Column: In Pandas, adding a column is done through assignment with a list of values.
-
Deleting a Column: Use the
drop()method to remove a column, withaxis=1indicating column removal. -
Inplace Modification: Setting
inplace=Truedirectly modifies the original DataFrame.
Examples & Applications
To add a 'Score' column: df['Score'] = [85, 90, 95]
To delete the 'Score' column: df.drop('Score', axis=1, inplace=True)
Memory Aids
Interactive tools to help you remember key concepts
Rhymes
Column adding is easy, just assign, no need to whine, use df['Name'] youβll be just fine.
Stories
Imagine a farmer (DataFrame) adding crops (new columns) to his farm β every new crop must fit in the rows of his planting plan.
Memory Tools
Remember A.D.D: Assign Data for a new column (Adding Direct Data).
Acronyms
C.A.D. - Create A DataFrame for adding columns!
Flash Cards
Glossary
- DataFrame
A two-dimensional labeled data structure with columns of potentially different types.
- add column
To introduce a new column to a DataFrame, assigning values to it.
- drop method
A method used to remove specified labels from rows or columns.
- axis
An integer that specifies whether to drop a column (1) or a row (0).
- inplace
An argument that allows changes to be applied directly to the DataFrame.
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