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Basic File Handling Concept in Computer Fundamentals

File handling is the process by which programs interact with files on storage devices, allowing operations such as reading, writing, creating, and deleting files. Files can be categorized into text files, which are human-readable, and binary files, which require specific programs to interpret. Key operations include opening, reading, writing, and closing files, which are essential for permanent data storage, sharing, handling large datasets, and debugging.

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64 views2 pages

Basic File Handling Concept in Computer Fundamentals

File handling is the process by which programs interact with files on storage devices, allowing operations such as reading, writing, creating, and deleting files. Files can be categorized into text files, which are human-readable, and binary files, which require specific programs to interpret. Key operations include opening, reading, writing, and closing files, which are essential for permanent data storage, sharing, handling large datasets, and debugging.

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anshikakatiyar888
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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basic file handling concept

file handling is the process by which a computer program interacts with files stored on a
storage device. It enables a program to read data from a file, write data to a file, and
perform other operations like creating, deleting, and updating files.

File

A file is a collection of data or information stored on a permanent storage medium, such


as a hard drive, SSD, or USB drive.

Files are structured in two primary ways:

 Text files: Store human-readable characters, with each line typically separated by a
special "end-of-line" character. Examples include .txt , .csv , and .py files.

 Binary files: Store non-human-readable data in its raw, binary format (0s and 1s).
These files require specific programs to interpret them and are used for images, audio,
video, and executable programs.

File pointer or file handle


A file pointer (or file handle) is a special variable that keeps track of an open file. It acts
as a reference, allowing the program to perform operations like reading or writing
without knowing the file's exact physical location on the disk.

File operations
The process of file handling involves a series of standard operations performed by a
program:

 Opening a file: Before any other action, the program must open the file, which creates
a connection between the program and the file on the disk.

 Access modes: When opening a file, a mode must be specified to indicate the
intended use. Common modes include:

o Read ( r ): Opens a file for reading only.

o Write ( w ): Opens a file for writing. If the file already exists, its contents are overwritten.
If it doesn't, a new file is created.
o Append ( a ): Opens a file for writing, adding new data to the end without deleting
existing content.

o Read/Write ( r+ , w+ ): Opens a file for both reading and writing.

 Reading from a file: This operation retrieves data from a file. Programs can read the
entire file at once, read line by line, or read a specified number of bytes.

 Writing to a file: This operation saves data permanently to a file. It can be used to add
new data or overwrite existing content.

 Closing a file: After all operations are complete, the file must be closed. Closing a file
ensures that all changes are saved and frees up system resources.

Why is file handling important?


 Permanent data storage: Files allow data to persist beyond the program's runtime.
This is essential for saving user preferences, configurations, or application data.

 Data sharing: Files are a portable way to share information between different programs
or systems.

 Handling large datasets: Files are necessary for processing large amounts of data
that would not fit into the computer's memory at one time.

 Logging and debugging: Developers use files to record application activity and errors,
which is crucial for auditing and troubleshootig.

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