Python locals() Function

The locals() function returns a dictionary containing the mapping between the variables defined in the current local scope and their values.

Syntax:

locals()

def func():
    x = 5
    y = 10
    print(locals())

func()

The values returned are references meaning that by modifying a value in the dictionary, we effectively modifies the local variable in the current scope.

x = 5
y = 10
locals()['x'] = 50
locals()['y'] = 100
print(locals())
print(x)
print(y)

x = 5
y = 10
z =0
locals()['x'] = 50
locals()['y'] = 100
locals()['z'] = 500
print(locals())
print(x)
print(y)
print(z)

The locals() function is a useful tool for debugging and inspecting the values of variables within a local scope. It is also commonly used in conjunction with the globals() function to update the values of global variables.