Introduction to Functions in Python

Vocabulary flashcards based on a lecture about functions in Python.

Function

A reusable block of code that performs a specific task.

Def

The keyword used to define a function in Python.

Call a Function

Using the function's name followed by parentheses () to execute it.

Parameter

A variable inside a function definition.

Argument

The actual value passed into a function.

Difference between Parameter and Argument

Parameter is a placeholder; Argument is the actual value.

Return Statement

Sends a value back and stops the function.

Effect of Return Statement

The function immediately stops executing after the return.

print() vs return

print() displays output; return gives back a value.

Positional Arguments

Arguments passed based on order (must match position).

Missing Required Positional Argument

Python throws an error if a required positional argument is missing.

Default Arguments

Parameters with preset values used if no argument is provided.

Rule for Default Arguments Order

Positional arguments must come before default ones.

Keyword Arguments

Arguments passed using parameter names where order doesn’t matter.

Order of Arguments in Function Call

Positional arguments come first, followed by keyword arguments.

*args

Represents multiple unnamed arguments, stored as a tuple/list.

**kwargs

Represents multiple named arguments, stored as a dictionary.

Scope

The range within which a variable exists and can be used.

Accessing Variables Outside Function

Variables inside a function cannot be accessed outside.

Mutable Data Type

A type that can be changed, such as lists and dictionaries.

Immutable Data Type

A type that cannot be changed, such as integers, strings, and tuples.

Passing Mutable Object into Function

It can be changed permanently.

Passing Immutable Object into Function

Changes do NOT affect the original.

Recursion

A function that calls itself.

Base Case in Recursion

A stopping condition required for recursion to work properly.