Final answer:
To suppress output in IPython, use a semicolon at the end of the statement or assign the output to a variable. This feature maintains a clean notebook interface and is useful when intermediate outputs are not required for the immediate analysis.
Step-by-step explanation:
To suppress an output in IPython, you can use a semicolon at the end of the line or assign the output to a variable. For example, when you execute plot(my_data);, the semicolon will prevent the display of the plot object information, while still showing the plot. This helps in keeping the notebook cells cleaner, especially when the output is large or not essential to the current analysis.
Another way to suppress output in IPython is by utilizing the Out function. For instance, in a scenario where you have already shown a plot or a computation, you might carry out a further calculation where you're not interested in the direct output. In this case, assigning the result to a variable (such as result = compute_function()) does not display the output, as it is stored in the result variable instead.
Using this feature is particularly useful when you're looking to create a more readable and presentable IPython notebook. By suppressing unnecessary output, you can focus on the key results and findings, and reduce distraction from intermediate computation details.