How Does Python's `os.chdir()` Function Mimic the Shell's `cd` Command?

Python Equivalent of Shell 'cd' Command for Changing Working Directory

The shell command 'cd' allows users to navigate and change their current working directory. In Python, the os.chdir() function serves as the equivalent for modifying the working directory.

Syntax

import os

os.chdir(path)

Example

The following Python code demonstrates the usage of os.chdir():

import os

# Change the current working directory to 'new_dir'
os.chdir('new_dir')

# Print the current working directory
print(os.getcwd())

Context Manager (Python 3.11 )

Since Python 3.11, the chdir() context manager can be utilized to ensure a return to the original working directory upon completion:

from contextlib import chdir

with chdir('new_dir'):
    # Perform operations within the 'new_dir' directory

# Execution continues in the original working directory

Subtleties

• Modifying the working directory within a subprocess does not impact the working directory of the parent process. This includes the Python interpreter.
• Exception handling should be cautious when changing the directory to avoid unintended modifications in the previous working location.

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