How To Sort Dictionary By Value In Python

Sorting a dictionary by value in Python is a common task that can be achieved using the sorted() function along with a lambda function. Here's a step-by-step guide to do it:

Method 1: Using sorted() and lambda

1. Sorting in Ascending Order:

my_dict = {'apple': 3, 'banana': 1, 'cherry': 2}

sorted_dict = dict(sorted(my_dict.items(), key=lambda item: item[1]))

print(sorted_dict)

2. Sorting in Descending Order:

my_dict = {'apple': 3, 'banana': 1, 'cherry': 2}

sorted_dict = dict(sorted(my_dict.items(), key=lambda item: item[1], reverse=True))

print(sorted_dict)

Method 2: Using operator.itemgetter

1. Sorting in Ascending Order:

import operator

my_dict = {'apple': 3, 'banana': 1, 'cherry': 2}

sorted_dict = dict(sorted(my_dict.items(), key=operator.itemgetter(1)))

print(sorted_dict)

2. Sorting in Descending Order:

import operator

my_dict = {'apple': 3, 'banana': 1, 'cherry': 2}

sorted_dict = dict(sorted(my_dict.items(), key=operator.itemgetter(1), reverse=True))

print(sorted_dict)

Explanation

• my_dict.items(): Returns a view object that displays a list of a dictionary's key-value tuple pairs.
• key=lambda item: item[1]: A lambda function that takes a tuple and returns the value part for sorting.
• reverse=True: Optional parameter that sorts the dictionary in descending order if set to True.

These methods will help you sort a dictionary by its values efficiently. Choose the one that best fits your coding style and requirements.