Description of the challenge

Dice-roll simulation is a great way to learn basic work with random numbers in Python.

In this lesson, we will learn how to use the random module to generate random numbers and how to use that number to simulate a roll of the dice.

Through this task, you will understand how Python can generate numbers within a certain range.

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the environment

To get started, you need to have Python installed on your computer. If you haven't already, download Python from the official website. Open Python IDLE or any text editor (e.g. Visual Studio Code, PyCharm) to write code.

Step 2: Writing the programme

• Open Python IDLE and create a new file to call dice.py.
• Enter the following code:

#We import a 'random' module for generating random numbers
We print a greeting to the user
print("Welcome to the roll-dice simulation!")
import random
Ask the user how many times he wants to roll the dice
throw_num = int(input("How many times do you want to roll the dice? "))
for i in range(throw_num):
result = random.randint(1, 6) #We generate a random number between 1 and 6
print(f"Throwing {i + 1}: {result}")
print("Thanks for playing!")

Visual representation of the code in Python IDLE

Make sure that the indentations in your code are the same like in the example above!

Step 3: Explanation of the code

• Import random module: The random module allows you to generate random numbers. The random.randint(a, b) function returns a random integer in the range from a to b, including both ends.
• Enter the number of throws: The programme asks the user to enter the number of times he wants to roll the dice. We convert the entered number to an integer using int().
• Toss simulation: The programme uses a loop to perform a dice simulation as many times as the user has entered. For each throw, a random number between 1 and 6 is generated, representing the result of the throw.
• Print results: For each throw, the result is printed (the number that has "fallen" on the dice). At the end of the programme, a message of gratitude is printed

Step 4: Run the programme

1. Save the file as dice.py.
2. Run your programme at Python IDLE.
3. Enter the number of times you want to roll the dice (e.g. 5).
4. The programme will generate random numbers and print them as a result of each throw.

Mini simulation:

Modify programme:

• Add an option to simulate two dice throws and add their results together.
• Add an option for the programme to end up printing the number of times that the programme has "dropped" on the dice the most.