title: Python csv module vs pandas.read_csv and Python xlrd vs pandas.read_excel
body: <p>In python, we can use either the <code>csv module</code> or the <code>pandas.read_csv</code> function to handle csv files.  For Excel files we can use the <code>xlrd module</code> or the <code>pandas.read_excel</code> function.</p>
  
  <p>I use pandas a lot and I feel that the read_csv and read_excel functions come in handy for me. 
  Can anyone explain me what are the pros and cons of each of these methods? </p>