Pandas Datatypes: An In-Depth Guide

1. Introduction to Pandas Datatypes

Every column in a Pandas DataFrame or a Series has a datatype. Pandas datatypes determine the kind of values a column can hold, and they significantly influence the operations you can perform on the data.

2. Core Pandas Datatypes

2.1 Object

• This represents string data in Pandas.
• It can also hold mixed types (numbers and strings).

Example:

codeimport pandas as pd 
    
s = pd.Series(['apple', 'banana', 'cherry']) 
print(s.dtype) # Outputs: object 

2.2 int64

• Represents integer variables (without decimal points).
• 64 refers to the memory allocated, which allows for large integer numbers.

Example:

codes = pd.Series([1, 2, 3]) 
print(s.dtype) # Outputs: int64 

2.3 float64

• Represents variable data with floating points.
• Suitable for columns with decimals.

Example:

codes = pd.Series([1.5, 2.6, 3.7]) 
print(s.dtype) # Outputs: float64 

2.4 bool

• Represents Boolean values: True and False .

Example:

codes = pd.Series([True, False, True]) 
print(s.dtype) # Outputs: bool 

2.5 datetime64

• Represents date and time data.

Example:

codes = pd.Series(['2021-01-01', '2022-01-01']) 
print(s.dtype) # Outputs: datetime64[ns] 

2.6 timedelta[ns]

• Represents differences in times.

Example:

codes = pd.Series([pd.Timedelta(days=1), pd.Timedelta(days=2)]) 
print(s.dtype) # Outputs: timedelta64[ns] 

2.7 category

• Suitable for categorical variables.
• Useful for variables with a limited set of values.

Example:

codes = pd.Series(["low", "medium", "high"], dtype="category") 
print(s.dtype) # Outputs: category 

3. Converting Datatypes

In many instances, you might need to convert between datatypes. Use the astype() function:

codedf['column_name'] = df['column_name'].astype('new_dtype') 

4. Handling Missing Data

Pandas uses the NaN (Not a Number) value, which is of float64 dtype, to represent missing data. It's important to note that NaN can't be used in integer columns. From Pandas 1.0 onwards, you can use Int64 (capital "I") datatype to store integers along with NaN .

5. Conclusion

Understanding Pandas datatypes is foundational for efficient data analysis. Recognizing and using the appropriate datatypes not only ensures data integrity but also optimizes performance and allows for more sophisticated operations and analysis. Armed with knowledge about these datatypes, you're better equipped to handle diverse datasets and challenges in data analysis.