IndexError — Easy Examples

Raised when a sequence index is out of range

EasyIntermediateAdvancedExpert

Triggering IndexError

How IndexError is raised and how to catch it.

python
# Triggering and catching IndexError
try:
    lst = [1, 2, 3]; lst[10]
except IndexError as e:
    print(f"Caught IndexError: {e}")
    print(f"Type: {type(e).__name__}")

IndexError is raised when raised when a sequence index is out of range. Always catch specific exceptions rather than bare except clauses.

Handling IndexError

Basic error handling pattern for IndexError.

python
# Safe handling pattern
def safe_operation():
    try:
        lst = [1, 2, 3]; lst[10]
    except IndexError:
        print("Operation failed gracefully")
        return None

result = safe_operation()
print(f"Result: {result}")

Wrapping risky operations in try/except blocks prevents your program from crashing.

Want to try these examples interactively?

Open Easy Playground
Intermediate Examples →