Python Program to Find Smallest Number in a List

Given a list of numbers, the task is to find the smallest element in that list.

For example:

li= [8, 3, 1, 9, 5] -> Smallest number = 1
li = [10, 25, 7, 30, 2] -> Smallest number = 2

Let’s explore different methods to find smallest number in a list.

Using min()

min() function takes an iterable (like a list, tuple etc.) and returns the smallest value.

a = [8, 3, 5, 1, 9, 12]
res = min(a)
print(res)

1

Using for Loop

We can also find the smallest number in a list using a loop (for loop). This method is useful for understanding how the comparison process works step by step.

a = [8, 3, 5, 1, 9, 12]
res = a[0]
for val in a:
    if val < res:
        res = val

print(res)

1

Explanation:

• Start by assuming the first element is the smallest (res = a[0]).
• Compare each element with res.
• If a smaller value is found, update res.
• After the loop ends, res holds the smallest number.

Using Sorting

Another way to find the smallest number in a list is by sorting it. Once sorted in ascending order, the smallest number will be at the beginning of the list.

a = [8, 3, 5, 1, 9, 12]
a.sort()
res = a[0]
print(res)

1

Explanation:

• sort() arranges the list in ascending order.
• The first element (a[0]) becomes the smallest value.

Get Smaller Elements in Python

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