Fix Python TypeError: 'int' object is not iterable (2025 Guide)

Posted on: March 19, 2025

Encountered a "TypeError: 'int' object is not iterable" in Python? This error occurs when you try to iterate over an integer instead of an iterable object like a list or string. Let’s fix it fast in this 2025 guide!

What Causes "TypeError: 'int' object is not iterable"?

This error happens when Python expects an iterable (e.g., list, tuple, string) but gets an integer instead. Common causes include:

• Missing Iterable: Passing an integer to a loop or function expecting an iterable.
• Type Confusion: Accidentally using a number where a sequence is required.
• Function Return Issue: A function returns an integer instead of an iterable.

Check this demo (open console in a Python environment):

# This will trigger "TypeError: 'int' object is not iterable"
number = 42
for item in number:
    print(item)

Running this will throw the error because `42` is an integer, not an iterable.

How to Fix It: 3 Solutions

Let’s resolve this error with practical steps:

(Diagram: Developer iterates over int, gets error, uses iterable, runs successfully.)

Solution 1: Use an Iterable Object

Replace the integer with an iterable like a list or range:

# Wrong
number = 42
for item in number:
    print(item)

# Fixed
numbers = [42]  # or range(42)
for item in numbers:
    print(item)  # 42

Wrap the integer in a list or use `range()` to make it iterable.

Solution 2: Check Variable Type

Verify the variable’s type before iterating:

# Wrong
number = 42
for item in number:
    print(item)

# Fixed
number = 42
if isinstance(number, int):
    number = [number]  # Convert to list if integer
for item in number:
    print(item)  # 42

Use `isinstance()` to detect and handle integer types dynamically.

Solution 3: Fix Function Returns

Ensure functions return iterables instead of integers:

# Wrong
def get_data():
    return 42

data = get_data()
for item in data:
    print(item)

# Fixed
def get_data():
    return [42]  # Return a list

data = get_data()
for item in data:
    print(item)  # 42

Adjust the function to return an iterable (e.g., list) instead of a single integer.

Quick Checklist

• Iterating over an integer? (Use a list or `range`)
• Unsure of the type? (Check with `isinstance`)
• Function returning a number? (Return an iterable instead)

Conclusion

The "TypeError: 'int' object is not iterable" in Python is easy to fix once you ensure you’re working with an iterable object. With these 2025 solutions, your code will run smoothly. Got another Python error? Let us know in the comments!