Python is an amazingly user-friendly language with the only flaw of being slow. In comparison to C, C++, and Java, it is quite slower. Online coding platforms, if C/C++ limit provided is X. Usually, in Java time provided is 2X and Python, it’s 5X.
To improve the speed of code execution for input/output intensive problems, languages have various input and output procedures.
 

Python is a popular programming language used in competitive programming. Input methods in Python are crucial for effective problem-solving in competitions. Here are some of the input methods you can use:

1. input() function: This is a built-in function in Python that reads a line of text from standard input and returns it as a string. It is the most commonly used method for reading input in Python.

2. sys.stdin.readline(): This method reads a line of text from standard input and returns it as a string. It is faster than input() and is often used in competitive programming where time is a critical factor.

3. fileinput.input(): This function reads input from multiple sources like files or standard input. It can read multiple files and merge them as a single stream.

4. getpass.getpass(prompt=None, stream=None): This method prompts the user for a password without echoing the input. It is commonly used in competitive programming problems that require user authentication.

5. argparse.ArgumentParser(): This module is used to create command-line interfaces. It parses arguments from the command-line and returns them as a dictionary.

In conclusion, mastering these input methods in Python will help you solve problems faster and more efficiently in competitive programming. However, it is essential to know which method is suitable for a specific problem to save time and avoid errors.