9. Functions - Data Structures and Algorithms in Python
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9. Functions

9. Functions

Functions play a vital role in programming by allowing code to be organized into logical blocks that can be reused multiple times with different inputs. When calling a function, arguments can either be mutable or immutable, affecting how the values are passed and modified within the function. Understanding function definitions, invocation, scope, and recursion are fundamental to writing effective Python programs.

10 sections

Sections

Navigate through the learning materials and practice exercises.

  1. 9.1

    This section introduces the concept of functions in Python, discussing their...

  2. 9.1.1
    Definition Of A Function

    This section introduces the concept of functions in Python, explaining their...

  3. 9.1.2
    Calling A Function

    This section introduces the concept of functions in Python, including how to...

  4. 9.1.3
    Mutable And Immutable Values

    This section explains the concepts of mutable and immutable values in...

  5. 9.1.4
    Updating A List

    This section focuses on how to define and utilize functions in Python for...

  6. 9.1.5
    Return Values In Functions

    This section covers functions in Python, focusing on how return values work...

  7. 9.1.6
    Local Names And Scope

    The section explores the importance of functions in Python programming,...

  8. 9.1.7
    Function Definition And Invocation Order

    This section discusses the essentials of defining functions in Python, their...

  9. 9.1.8
    Recursive Functions

    This section introduces recursive functions, explaining their structure and...

  10. 9.1.9
    Summarization Of Functions

    Functions are essential components in Python programming that allow for...

What we have learnt

  • Functions are groups of statements that perform specific tasks and can be reused in a program.
  • Arguments passed to functions can either be mutable or immutable, affecting how they can be modified.
  • Functions must be defined before being invoked in Python, ensuring that the interpreter recognizes all function calls.

Key Concepts

-- Functions
A function is a grouping of code that performs a specific task, defined using the 'def' statement.
-- Parameters/Arguments
Variables that are passed to functions to be used within them, can be mutable or immutable.
-- Return Statement
A command within a function that ends the function's execution and optionally returns a value to the caller.
-- Scope
The context in which a variable is defined and accessed, with function names being local to the function.
-- Recursion
A technique where a function calls itself to solve a problem, commonly used in functions like factorial.

Additional Learning Materials

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