Python Row-Number Square Pattern: A Guide to Value-Based Nested Loops

While printing stars is common, printing numbers in a grid is the secret to mastering variable tracking in Python. This specific pattern program demonstrates how to print the current row number across an entire line, a fundamental concept for data indexing and report formatting

for x in range(1, 6):
    for y in range(1, 6):
        print(x, end="")
    print()

Output:

Patterns Programs

Step-by-Step Explanation

  1. The Role of x (The Row Value): In this program, x is our "Row Manager." Because we are printing x inside the inner loop, the value only changes when we move to a new row.

    • When x is 1, the inner loop prints "1" five times.

    • When x is 2, the inner loop prints "2" five times.

  2. The Inner Loop (The Repeater): The loop for y in range(1, 6): acts as a horizontal repeater. It doesn't care about its own value (y); it simply ensures that whatever is in the print() statement happens exactly 5 times.

  3. The end="" Shortcut: Without this, every single number would print on a new line. By using end="", we keep the numbers "glued" together horizontally.

  4. The print() Reset: Once the inner loop finishes its 5th count, the empty print() executes, acting like a "Return" key to start the next row of numbers.

Why This Pattern is Important

This exercise teaches you the difference between static output (stars) and dynamic output (using variables). If you change print(x, end="") to print(y, end=""), you would get a completely different pattern (12345 on every row). Understanding this distinction is vital for any developer.