When should I use lists instead of dictionaries in Python?

When should I use lists instead of dictionaries in Python?

You should use lists when you need an ordered collection of items, and dictionaries when you need key-value pairs.

Can you give me an example of when to use each?

Sure! Use a list for storing a sequence of numbers, like [1, 2, 3]. Use a dictionary for storing user information, like {'name': 'Alice', 'age': 30}.

What are the performance differences between them?

Lists are generally faster for iteration, while dictionaries provide faster lookups for key-value pairs.

Are there any situations where one is clearly better than the other?

Yes, if you need to maintain order and allow duplicates, use lists. If you need unique keys and fast access, use dictionaries.