AME 209: 14. Functions and Modularity in Python

Vocabulary flashcards for review.

Built-in Function

Predefined functions provided by Python that perform specific tasks. Examples: input(), print(), len()

User-defined Function

Functions defined by the user using the 'def' keyword, requiring a function name, input(s), and output(s).

Lambda Function

Small, anonymous functions used for short, throwaway functionality, often passed directly to another function; defined using 'lambda arguments: expression'.

Module

A file containing Python code (usually functions or class definitions) that can be reused across scripts to organize code and avoid repetitions.

Custom Module

A .py file containing Python code (functions, constants, or classes) that can be imported into other Python scripts to reuse code and organize projects.

Function Handle

A way to reference a function, allowing it to be passed as an argument to other functions. Supported in MATLAB and can be generated in Python, though not as naturally.

print()

A built-in Python function that prints output to the console.

Anatomy of a built-in function

out1, out2, … = func_name(inp1, inp2, …)

Anatomy of a User-defined Function

def func_name(inp1, inp2, …) :

Function body

return out1, out2, …

Why would you use custom modules?

Custom modules allow for code organization, reuse, and separation of functionality, making programs easier to manage and maintain.

How do you create a custom module?

Write your Python functions and variables in a separate file with a .py extension. Then, you can import this file in your main program using the import statement.