How Can I Check for File Existence in Python Without Using Exception Handling?

File Existence Verification without Exception Handling

In this query, the task at hand is to ascertain the existence of a file without employing exception handling.

Try/Except Avoidance

The primary argument against using a try statement lies in scenarios where the file existence check is merely a precursor to some other action. For instance, if the intention is to open the file only if it exists, it's inherently safer to embrace a try block surrounding the open operation itself. This approach circumvents potential discrepancies between the file check and the actual opening, reducing the risk of file modification or removal in the interim.

Python File Existence Checks

1. os.path.isfile(): This function explicitly determines if a specified path corresponds to a regular file, even when accounting for symbolic links.

import os.path
if os.path.isfile('/path/to/file'):
    pass  # The file exists

2. Pathlib: Python 3.4 introduced the pathlib module, offering an object-oriented alternative:

from pathlib import Path

my_file = Path('/path/to/file')
if my_file.is_file():
    pass  # The file exists

For directories, the is_dir() method can be utilized. To check regardless of file or directory status, use exists():

if my_file.exists():
    pass  # The path exists

3. resolve(strict=True): Within a try block, this method can also be leveraged:

try:
    my_abs_path = my_file.resolve(strict=True)
except FileNotFoundError:
    pass  # The file doesn't exist
else:
    pass  # The file exists

By choosing the most appropriate method depending on the specific requirement, developers can efficiently verify file existence.

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