Python requests.PATCH(): Guide to Making HTTP PATCH Requests

The requests.PATCH() method in Python allows you to partially modify resources on a server. Unlike PUT requests, PATCH updates only specific fields.

Understanding PATCH Requests

PATCH requests are ideal when you need to make partial modifications to a resource without sending the complete data set, unlike PUT requests that require sending the entire resource.

Basic PATCH Request Syntax

Here's a simple example of how to make a PATCH request:

import requests

url = "https://api.example.com/users/1"
data = {
    "email": "newemail@example.com"
}

response = requests.patch(url, json=data)
print(response.status_code)
print(response.json())

Adding Headers to PATCH Requests

You can include headers in your PATCH requests for authentication or content type specification. Here's how:

headers = {
    "Authorization": "Bearer your_token_here",
    "Content-Type": "application/json"
}

response = requests.patch(url, json=data, headers=headers)

Handling PATCH Response

Always check the response status code to ensure your request was successful:

response = requests.patch(url, json=data)
if response.status_code == 200:
    print("Update successful!")
    print(response.json())
else:
    print(f"Error: {response.status_code}")

Working with Different Data Formats

PATCH requests can handle various data formats. Here's an example with form data:

# Using form data
form_data = {"name": "John"}
response = requests.patch(url, data=form_data)

# Using JSON data
json_data = {"name": "John"}
response = requests.patch(url, json=json_data)

Error Handling

Implement proper error handling in your PATCH requests:

try:
    response = requests.patch(url, json=data)
    response.raise_for_status()
    print("Update successful!")
except requests.exceptions.RequestException as e:
    print(f"An error occurred: {e}")

Using Authentication

When working with authenticated APIs, you can include credentials in your PATCH requests:

auth = ("username", "password")
response = requests.patch(url, json=data, auth=auth)

Conclusion

The requests.PATCH() method is powerful for partial resource updates. Remember to handle responses and errors appropriately, and always verify the API documentation for specific requirements.

For more HTTP methods, check out our guides on POST and GET requests.