Course description

1. Function Definition:

   • A function is defined using the def keyword followed by a function name.
   • It typically takes parameters (input values) within parentheses.

   
   def my_function(parameter1, parameter2):
       # Function body
   

2. Function Call:

   • To execute a function, you "call" it by using its name followed by parentheses.

   
   my_function(value1, value2)
   

3. Return Statement:

   • Functions can return values using the return keyword.
   • The returned value can be assigned to a variable or used directly.

   
   def add_numbers(a, b):
       result = a + b
       return result
   
   sum_result = add_numbers(3, 4)
   

4. Parameters and Arguments:

   • Parameters are placeholders in a function definition.
   • Arguments are actual values passed to a function during a call.

   
   def greet(name):
       print(f"Hello, {name}!")
   
   greet("Alice")
   

5. Default Parameters:

   • You can assign default values to parameters in a function.

   
   def greet(name="Guest"):
       print(f"Hello, {name}!")
   
   greet()  # Outputs: Hello, Guest!
   greet("Bob")  # Outputs: Hello, Bob!
   

6. Scope:

   • Variables defined inside a function have local scope.
   • Variables defined outside a function have global scope.

   
   def my_function():
       local_variable = 42
   
   print(local_variable)  # Raises an error
   

7. Global Variables:

   • Use the global keyword to access and modify global variables within a function.

   
   
   global_var = 10
   
   def modify_global():
       global global_var
       global_var += 5
   
   modify_global()
   print(global_var)  # Outputs: 15
   

8. Docstrings:

   • Document functions using docstrings for clarity and documentation.

   
   def my_function():
       """
       This is a docstring that explains what my_function does.
       """
       # Function body
   

9. Lambda Functions:

   • Lambda functions are concise, anonymous functions defined using the lambda keyword.

   
   add = lambda x, y: x + y
   result = add(3, 4)  # Result: 7
   

10. Recursive Functions:

    • Functions can call themselves, creating recursive functions.

    
    def factorial(n):
        if n == 0 or n == 1:
            return 1
        else:
            return n * factorial(n-1)

What will i learn?

• Understanding of Functions: Students will have a solid understanding of what functions are, how to define them, and the role they play in organizing and structuring code.
• Ability to Define Functions: Participants will be able to define functions with parameters, use default parameters, and include return statements to produce desired outcomes.
• Parameter Passing: Students will grasp the concepts of parameter passing, distinguishing between parameters and arguments, and effectively using them in function calls.
• Scope and Variables: A comprehension of variable scope, both local and global, allowing students to write functions that utilize variables appropriately within and outside the function.
• Default Parameters and Keyword Arguments: Understanding how to use default parameters and keyword arguments, enabling students to create versatile and flexible functions.
• Documentation Practices: Students will be familiar with writing docstrings to document their functions, fostering good coding practices and making their code more understandable.
• Lambda Functions: An understanding of lambda functions and their use cases, allowing students to write concise, one-line functions for specific purposes.
• Recursive Functions: Proficiency in designing and implementing recursive functions, enabling students to solve problems that can be broken down into smaller instances.
• Error Handling: An introduction to basic error handling mechanisms, including try-except blocks, to help students manage and handle errors in their functions.
• Code Readability and Modularity: Appreciation for writing modular code using functions, leading to improved code readability, maintainability, and reusability.
• Application of Functions: The ability to apply functions to solve real-world problems and integrate them into larger programs or scripts.
• Independent Coding Skills: Increased confidence and independence in coding, as students gain practical experience through hands-on exercises and assignments.
• Collaboration and Communication: Improved collaboration and communication skills within the programming community, possibly through engagement in forums or group discussions related to functions in Python.

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