How to Sort First List Using Second List in Python

Submitted by razormist on Monday, June 8, 2026 - 22:33.

In this tutorial, we will learn how to program "How to Sort First List Using Second List in Python". The objective is to sort the first list using the second list. This tutorial will guide you step by step through the process of sorting the first list using the second list. By the end of this tutorial, you will have a solid understanding of how to implement this solution effectively in Python, helping you strengthen your problem-solving abilities and improve your coding skills.

This topic is straightforward and easy to understand. By following the instructions provided, you will be able to complete it with ease. The program will guide you step by step through the process of sorting the first list using the second list. So, let’s dive into the coding process!

Getting Started:

First you will have to download & install the Python IDLE's, here's the link for the Integrated Development And Learning Environment for Python https://www.python.org/downloads/.

Creating Main Function

This is the main function of the application. The following code will display a simple GUI in terminal console that will display program. To do this, simply copy and paste these blocks of code into the IDLE text editor.

# MAIN LOOP
while True:
    print("\n============= Sort the Values of First List Using Second List =============\n")
 
    # Input first list
    a = input("Enter elements of the first list (space-separated): ").split()
 
    # Input second list
    try:
        b = list(map(int, input("Enter elements of the second list (space-separated integers): ").split()))
    except ValueError:
        print("Invalid input. Please enter integers only for the second list.")
        continue
 
    # Validate lengths
    if len(a) != len(b):
        print("Both lists must have the same number of elements.")
        continue
 
    # Sort first list using second list
    x = [val for _, val in sorted(zip(b, a))]
 
    print("\nFirst List :", a)
    print("Second List:", b)
    print("Sorted First List:", x)
 
    # Try Again Option
    opt = input("\nDo you want to try again? (yes/no): ").strip().lower()
 
    if opt == 'no':
        print("Exiting program...")
        break
    elif opt != 'yes':
        print("Invalid choice. Exiting program...")
        break

This Python program sorts the first list based on the values of the second list. It takes two lists as input: the first list contains elements to be rearranged, and the second list contains integer values used as sorting keys. Using `zip()` and `sorted()`, the program pairs both lists and sorts the first list according to the order of the second list. It then displays the original lists and the sorted result. The program runs interactively with input validation and allows users to repeat or exit.

Output:

There you have it we successfully created How to Sort First List Using Second List in Python. I hope that this simple tutorial help you to what you are looking for. For more updates and tutorials just kindly visit this site. Enjoy Coding!

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