How to create a .txt file in Python? (Pycharm)

Question

In a previous post, I asked how to create a new file to be written in if it didn't already exist. However, I've just tried this in PyCharm, and it's not working. I don't see any sign of the file LOOKHERE.txt

my_list = [i**2 for i in range(1,11)]

openfile = open('LOOKHERE.txt', 'w')
for item in my_list:
    openfile.write(str(item) + "\n")
openfile.close()

What am I doing wrong? Could it have anything to do with PyCharm's use of projects?

Answer 1

The text file is created in the pycharm project folder, like you suggested. If you want it to go elsewhere, like your desktop for instance, do this:

f = open('path_to_desktop/file.txt', 'w')

Note: I just tested this on my own system. I was able to get the project path by right-clicking the folder in the project window(on the right), and clicking 'copy path' from the menu that pops up.

EDIT: I assume since you accepted my answer, that this worked out for you eventually(though please, any other questions, do comment). Just wanted to add, as @ThanePlummer mentioned, that it's generally better practice to use the with statement when opening files. One reason being that your files get auto-closed for you! Google it up ;)

Answer 2

First you should explicitly specify the path. Do this using the r specifier and the join command so that it is platform independent. It's best to use the with keyword when operating on files.

import os

my_path = r'my/longpath/here' # forward slash works on all systems

my_list = [i**2 for i in range(1,11)]

with open(os.path.join(my_path, 'subdir', 'LOOKHERE.txt'), 'w') as fh:
    for item in my_list:
        openfile.write(str(item) + "\n")

Answer 3

In PyCharm you can specify working directory to point the location where program should be executed. Open Edit Configuration by pressing Shift+Alt+F10 and then 0 or with Navigation Bar. Then in Working directory select project's path.