Functions

Multiple Return Values

Python returns multiple values by returning a tuple and unpacking it.

Returning values separated by commas returns one tuple. The tuple is visible if the caller stores the result directly.

Source

def divide_with_remainder(total, size):
    quotient = total // size
    remainder = total % size
    return quotient, remainder

result = divide_with_remainder(17, 5)
print(result)

Output

(3, 2)

Callers usually unpack the tuple immediately or soon after. The names at the call site document what each position means.

Source

boxes, leftover = result
print(boxes)
print(leftover)

Output

3
2

Notes

A comma creates a tuple; return a, b returns one tuple containing two values.
Unpacking at the call site gives each returned position a meaningful name.
Use a class-like record when the result has many fields.

Run the complete example

Expected output

(3, 2)
3
2

Execution time appears here after you run the example.

Multiple Return Values

See also

Run the complete example

Example code

Expected output