Functions in Python are reusable blocks of code that perform specific tasks. They help organize code, reduce repetition, and make programs more modular and easier to maintain.
1. What is a Function?
A function is a block of organized, reusable code designed to perform a single, related action. Python provides two types of functions:
- Built-in functions: Predefined functions like
print()
,len()
, etc. - User-defined functions: Functions that you define yourself using the
def
keyword.
2. Why Use Functions?
- Code Reusability: Write once, and reuse multiple times.
- Improved Readability: Simplify complex programs by breaking them into smaller, understandable parts.
- Maintainability: Easier to debug and modify.
- Avoid Redundancy: Reduce repetitive code.
3. Creating a Function
Syntax
def function_name(parameters):
"""
Optional docstring: Explains what the function does.
"""
# Function body
return output # Optional
def
: Keyword used to define a function.function_name
: Name of the function, which follows Python’s naming conventions.parameters
: Variables passed into the function (optional).return
: Specifies the output of the function (optional).
Examples of Functions
Example 1: A Simple Function
def welcome():
print("Hello, welcome to Python!")
# Calling the function
welcome()
Example 2: Function with Parameters
def welcome_user(name):
print(f"Hello, {name}! Welcome to Python!")
# Calling the function with an argument
welcome_user("Infovistar")
5. Function with Return Value
A function can return a result using the return
statement.
def add_numbers(a, b):
return a + b
# Call the function and store the result
result = add_numbers(5, 3)
print("The sum is:", result)
By mastering functions, you’ll write cleaner, more efficient, and more scalable Python programs!