Python Dictionary Storage of Custom Objects: The Importance of References vs. Deep Copies
In Python programming, a dictionary is a very powerful data structure that allows us to associate key-value pairs and efficiently search and manipulate these data. When we try to store custom objects in a dictionary, we often encounter a crucial concept: In Python, object assignment is actually reference assignment, not a deep copy of the object itself. This means that when you put a custom object into a dictionary, the dictionary stores a reference to that object, rather than a brand new copy of the object.