Chapter 10 - OOP in Python Flashcards

Key Concepts in Object-Oriented Programming

• An object represents a software entity that encapsulates both data and procedures.
• Encapsulation combines data and code into a coherent single unit or object.
• An object's internal data is hidden from outside code to protect it from accidental corruption and to reduce dependencies on the object's internal structure.

Accessibility of Methods

• Public methods can be accessed by external entities, allowing interaction with the object's data.
• Private methods are restricted to internal access, intended solely for use within the object itself.

Metaphorical Representations

• A blueprint serves as a metaphor for a class, outlining the design for creating objects.
• Objects are likened to cookies, which are the result of the cookie cutter (the class).

Object Initialization and Attributes

• The init method initializes an object's data attributes upon object creation.
• The self parameter in methods allows the function to know which object's attributes to manipulate, linking methods to their respective instances.
• Attributes can be hidden by prefixing their names with double underscores.

String Representation and Attribute Types

• The str method generates a string representation of the object for easy readability.
• An instance attribute is specific to an instance, differentiating it from class attributes.

Methods in Classes

• An accessor method retrieves values from attributes without modifying them.
• A mutator method updates or changes the values of an attribute, performing the necessary state changes.

UML and Design

• A typical UML diagram for a class has three sections: class name, fields (attributes), and methods.
• A problem domain refers to a written depiction of real-world elements involved in the problem being solved.

Problem Domain Analysis

• When writing a problem domain description, a person with thorough understanding or an expert in the field should be consulted to ensure clarity.
• Identify potential classes by pinpointing nouns and phrases in the domain description, then refining that list to focus on relevant classes.

Class Responsibilities

• A class's responsibilities encompass what the class needs to know and the actions it must perform.
• To determine a class's responsibilities, ask:
  • What must the class know?
  • What must the class do?

Test your knowledge of object-oriented programming concepts with these flashcards from Chapter 10 of 'Starting Out with Python, 3e'. Cover key terms such as objects and encapsulation, and explore their significance in software development.