File Seek Python Documentation, The Python File seek () method sets the file's cursor at a specified position in the current file. A file's cursor is used to store the current position of the read and write operations in a file; and this method can move this file cursor forward or backward. Feb 5, 2026 · In Python, the seek () function is used to move the file cursor to a specific position inside a file. There is no return value. Mar 26, 2025 · This comprehensive guide explores Python's seek function, a powerful method for file positioning in Python. When you open a file, the system points to the beginning of the file. This allows you to read or write at any part of the file instead of always starting from the beginning. SEEK_CUR or 1 (seek relative to the current position) and os. A seek() operation moves that pointer to some other part of the file so you can read or write at that place. For example, there are modules for reading the properties of files, manipulating paths in a portable way, and creating temporary files. Definition and Usage The seek() method sets the current file position in a file stream. SEEK_SET or 0 (absolute file positioning); other values are os. We'll cover basic usage, positioning modes, practical examples, and best practices. The seek() method also returns the new postion. 1 day ago · The modules described in this chapter deal with disk files and directories. . The whence argument is optional and defaults to os. Any read or write you do will happen from the beginning. SEEK_END or 2 (seek relative to the file’s end). hnokkqv dckjcxv giyj qwrq oh maiu rvz153w kh4z szoq qdg