python / python/cpython

Ctrl+Alt+L is broken after upgrading to Python 3.13

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#134,746 2 comments 0 reactions 0 assignees View on GitHub

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stdlib topic-repl type-bug
Dominant language
Python
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Forks
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PR merge metrics
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Description

Bug report

Bug description:
  1. Open python3 for the REPL
  2. Run anything like 1+2
  3. Press Ctrl + Alt + L
Expended behavior from Python 3.12

The screen should be cleared with only ">>>" remaining, and the scrollbar should indicate no history.

Actual behavior on Python 3.13+

Nothing happens, and the "3" is still there.

Tested on Python 3.13.3 (main, Apr 8 2025, 19:55:40) [GCC 14.2.0] on linux and Python 3.15.0a0 (heads/main:57fef27cfc, May 25 2025, 13:55:21) [GCC 14.2.0] on linux

Note that Ctrl + L still works, but it is designed to not clear history.

CPython versions tested on:

3.13

Operating systems tested on:

Linux

Linked PRs
  • gh-138521

Contributor guide

Open the contributing guide

First steps

  1. Read the whole issue, then the project's contributing guide.
  2. Comment on the issue to say you are picking it up — it saves two people doing the same work.
  3. Fork the repository and make your change on a branch.
  4. Open a pull request that references the issue number.

Research direction

Reproduce the behavior in the Python 3.13+ REPL on Linux using the Ctrl+Alt+L steps, then trace the REPL input handling and compare it with Python 3.12. Done means the shortcut clears the screen and history display as described, while Ctrl+L retains its existing behavior. Review linked PR gh-138521 before starting because the issue indicates work is already underway.

Written by the indexing model from the issue text.

Assessment

Tech stack
python
Domain
cli
Issue type
Bug
Difficulty
3/5
Estimated time
1-2 days
Activity status
Stale
Clarity
Mostly clear
Newbie friendliness
25/100

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