How can I flush the output of the print function in Python?
How can I flush the output of the print function in Python?
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24-Mar-2025
Updated on 27-Mar-2025
Khushi Singh
27-Mar-2025The buffered default configuration of the print() function in Python delays output by storing it in memory before presenting it either to the console screen or a file destination. The buffering mechanism in Python sometimes results in delayed screen display especially when dealing with persistent programs and applications as well as real-time logging systems. The output needs immediate display therefore you need to execute a buffer flush operation.
The easiest method to clear the buffer involves enabling the flush parameter within the print() function. A default flush value of False exists but turning it into True makes Python immediately flush the output.
The immediate display of messages on the console becomes possible through this technique because the output buffer does not affect it.
Users can employ the sys module to execute a manual flush operation on sys.stdout as an alternative method. The method allows instant terminal output especially when dealing with loops or logging operations. Here’s an example:
The execution of the sys.stdout.flush() command results in immediate data output to achieve real-time message display.
You can gain instant feedback through flushing output in applications that require time-sensitive display of data. Python automatically performs file output flushing during file closure but you can take advantage of file.flush() to trigger immediate data disk synchronization. The effectiveness of output buffering management in Python programs affects the time it takes to display results to users and their interaction experience.