How to Prompt a Free Type Question with a List of Options in Python Inquirer

Learn how to effectively use Python Inquirer to allow free text input alongside a list of options. This guide will help you enhance user interaction in your Python applications.
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How to Prompt a Free Type Question with a List of Options in Python Inquirer

When developing interactive command-line applications in Python, you might find yourself needing to ask users a question that allows for both predefined options and free text input. This scenario presents a challenge when using the inquirer library, which primarily offers the functionality for either multiple-choice lists or text input. In this guide, we’ll explore an effective way to prompt users for their input that accommodates both needs.

The Challenge:

How to Combine List Choices with Free Text Input?

Suppose you want to present the user with a question such as:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

The ideal scenario is to allow the user to either select from the options or type an answer of their own. However, using Python Inquirer, you quickly notice that it doesn’t have a straightforward solution for mixing these functionalities within a single prompt.

The Solution: Utilizing an "Other" Option

Overview of the Approach

Instead of losing hope on Inquirer or switching to another library, you can implement a simple yet effective workaround by introducing an "Other" option. Here’s how it works in a few easy steps:

Present a list of options to the user.

Include ‘Other’ as one of the choices.

If 'Other' is selected, prompt the user to enter free text.

Step-by-step Implementation

This solution can be easily implemented using the following Python code:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Detailed Explanation

Import Inquirer Library: First, you need to import the inquirer library, which enables you to create interactive prompts.

Prompting the User: The list_input function displays a list of choices to the user. The choices parameter includes options "1", "2", "3", and "Other". This way, the user is aware they have the flexibility to input something else if none of the options meet their needs.

Handling User Input: After the user makes a selection, a conditional check determines if they chose "Other". If so, it prompts the user to enter their custom response through the text function.

Displaying the Result: Finally, the application prints out either the selected option or the user’s custom input based on their choice.

Conclusion

By applying this method, you effectively leverage the strengths of the inquirer library while still allowing users the flexibility to provide free text input when necessary. This approach not only enhances user experience in your Python CLI applications but also keeps your implementation neat and straightforward.

Remember, offering users options along with an opportunity to express their own thoughts can lead to richer interactions and more meaningful data collection. Happy coding!