Python divmod(): Get Quotient and Remainder Together

The divmod() function returns both the quotient and remainder when dividing two numbers. This is useful for math calculations, loops, and handling division efficiently.

Example

result = divmod(10, 3)
print(result)  # Output: (3, 1)

Here, 10 ÷ 3 gives:

• Quotient → 3
• Remainder → 1

Syntax

divmod(a, b)

• a → Dividend (number to be divided).
• b → Divisor (number to divide by).
• Returns → A tuple (quotient, remainder).

This is the same as using:

quotient = a // b
remainder = a % b

1. Using divmod() in a Loop

When distributing items, divmod() helps track full sets and leftovers.

total_candies = 20
kids = 6

q, r = divmod(total_candies, kids)
print(f"Each kid gets {q} candies, {r} left over.")
# Output: Each kid gets 3 candies, 2 left over.

2. Using divmod() with Time Conversion

Convert seconds into minutes and remaining seconds.

seconds = 125
minutes, remaining_seconds = divmod(seconds, 60)

print(f"{minutes} minutes and {remaining_seconds} seconds")
# Output: 2 minutes and 5 seconds

Perfect for countdowns, timers, and scheduling.

3. Using divmod() for Large Number Operations

For big calculations, divmod() is faster than using // and % separately.

num = 123456789
divisor = 10000

quotient, remainder = divmod(num, divisor)
print(f"Quotient: {quotient}, Remainder: {remainder}")
# Output: Quotient: 12345, Remainder: 6789

Key Notes

• ✔ Returns both quotient and remainder – faster than using // and % separately.
• ✔ Great for distributing items and tracking leftovers.
• ✔ Useful for time conversions – seconds to minutes, hours to days.
• ✔ Efficient for handling large numbers in math-heavy applications.

By using divmod(), you can simplify division-based calculations, making your code faster and cleaner. 🚀