Object-Oriented Programming in Python

Questions and Answers

What does the init method in a Python class primarily do?

It automatically destroys an object when it is no longer needed.

It defines the attributes of the class.

It converts class methods into instance methods.

It runs code to initialize an object's state upon instantiation. (correct)

What happens when you call a method on an object in Python?

The method creates a new instance of the object each time it is called.

The method is not able to access the object's attributes.

The method directly modifies the class definition.

The method is passed the instance as the first argument automatically. (correct)

In an object-oriented program, which of the following is NOT a characteristic of an object?

State

Identity

Behavior

Inheritance (correct)

What keyword is used in Python to access instance attributes and methods within a class?

self Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about objects in Python is true?

All integers and strings in Python are considered objects. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of using classes in Object-Oriented Programming?

To bind data and functions together as a single unit Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following terms is NOT a principle of Object-Oriented Programming?

Iteration Signup and view all the answers

What defines a class in Python?

A blueprint from which objects are created Signup and view all the answers

Why might using a list to track multiple entities become problematic?

It lacks organization and clarity for accessing data Signup and view all the answers

What does encapsulation achieve in Object-Oriented Programming?

It restricts access to certain components of an object Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) in Python

OOP in Python enables developers to create modular, maintainable, and scalable applications by using concepts like classes and objects.
Key principles of OOP include inheritance, encapsulation, polymorphism, and abstraction.
OOP binds data and functions within classes, ensuring that data is securely encapsulated and accessible only through defined methods.

Python Classes

A class is a blueprint for creating objects; it defines attributes (data) and methods (functions).
Example use case: Tracking dogs with differing attributes (breed, age) through organized classes rather than unstructured lists.

Class Definition and Syntax

Classes are created using the class keyword in Python.

Python Objects

An object is an instance of a class containing both state (attributes) and behavior (methods).
Objects can represent tangible items (like a keyboard, dog, etc.) or primitive data types (integers, strings).

Understanding State, Behavior, and Identity

Using the Dog class example, an object's identity can be tracked through its attributes and methods.

Creating and Using Objects

An object is instantiated from a class to utilize the defined properties and behaviors.
The syntax to call a method on an object is myobject.method(arg1, arg2), translating internally to MyClass.method(myobject, arg1, arg2).

The `self` Keyword

The self parameter in methods refers to the instance of the object, allowing access to its attributes and methods.

The `init` Method

The __init__ method acts as a constructor, initializing object attributes upon instantiation.
Its role is to set up an object's initial state as soon as it is created.

Example: Dog Class

A Dog class can have attributes like name and methods such as speak.
Instantiation example: Creating two Dog objects, Rodger and Tommy, initializes them with specific names, and allows them to execute their respective speak methods.