How to get/set a pandas index column title or name?

The renaming game with rename_axis

The rename_axis method is your secret tool in DataFrame manipulation. It's great for keeping code readable and works well in chaining operations:

Rename index title:

# Imagine this: switching index names as often as changing socks
df = df.rename_axis('fresh_title', axis='index')
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Remove index/column names:

# Time to let go and live in freedom - no more names
df = df.rename_axis(index=None, columns=None)
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It even takes a list or tuple to set multiple names at once, making your MultiIndex DataFrame renaming a walk in the park.

Unraveling the index-name vs column-name debacle

Some people confuse index name and column names. Here's how to set things straight:

Incorrect - setting column names as index name:

# No no no! That's like calling your dog "Cat" - confusing, right?
df.columns.name = 'index_title'
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Correct - index name with .index.name:

# Ah, that's better! Now your index feels like it truly belongs
df.index.name = 'right_index_name'
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Here's a mnemonic trick: df.index.name stands for the index name, while df.columns.name sets the label for column levels.

Multilevel index? Challenge accepted!

MultiIndex DataFrames are pros at sporting snazzy index titles:

Set index titles:

# Like naming your own secret-lair levels in the villain headquarters
df.index.set_names(['Level_1', 'Level_2'], inplace=True)
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Your complex DataFrame now has its hierarchy clearly labeled. Enjoy the clarity! 📊

Dive into index attributes

For the inquisitive pandas programmers, here's how to list all index attributes:

# Who knew that indices could wear so many hats?
attributes = dir(df.index)
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So, get ready to reveal secrets of your DataFrame's index and arguably have more fun!

Making the column an index with .set_index

Here’s a code snippet that runs the show and upgrades a column to be the new boss: the index. It also gives a name at one go:

# Why just elevating a column to index? Let's name it too - All hail "New_Index"!
df = df.set_index('index_column', inplace=False).rename_axis('new_index_name')
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That's how you jazz up your DataFrame by setting a column as the new index and naming it, all in one stroke!

Watch out for version pitfalls

Just a quick word of caution: using df.index.rename was introduced in pandas 0.13, while rename_axis became more popular later for being chaining-friendly and intuitive.

Always keep an eye on the version history or you might step on a version trap!