Python Working With Classes And Objects¶

In this article we will learn how to work with classes and objects in python. Python classes are mainly used for code reusability and better maintainability. You might have a question that we have a functions why do we need classes ? that's a good question. By using functions we can reuse the functionality In some cases we may need to hold the data and functionality together which is not possible with python functions. So, to bundle the data and functionality together we use python classes.we can use the object oriented programming principles like inheritance, encapsulation, etc. using python classes.

Syntax of a pyhon class¶

class <ClassName>:
    <statement-1>
    .
    .
    .
    <statement-n>

Working with python class¶

class Snake:
    name = 'python'
    def change_name(self, new_name):
        self.name = new_name
        self.status = "name changed"

• Creating an object in python

obj = Snake()

we have created an object of class "Snake". The process of creating a class object is called "instantiation". So, object of the class is also called as an instance of a class which is created from.

• Accessing the attribute of a class

obj = Snake()
print(obj.name)
#Output: python

The variables that are defined inside the class are called as "attributes". In python, we have two types of attributes 1. instance attribute 2.class attribute. In above example we have seen accessing the instance attribute. In the next example we will see how to access class attribute of a python class.

• Accessing the class attribute of a class. Class attribute is also called as class variable.

print(Snake.name)
#Output: python

In the above code we have not created an object of the class. But, we are still able to access it. Because it is a class variable.

• Accessing the method of a class

obj = Snake()
obj.change_name('Cobra')
print(obj.name)
#Output: Cobra

In above code we have called the class method "change_name". In python we call the function as method if it is inside the class. In the method signature we have used "self" keyword of python. The keyword "self" is used inside the class definition. It is used to represent the instance of the class. It means it represents the object itself.

Related Blog Articles

Basic Understanding Of Class In Python

A class is a basic design or a plan to an object. Class explains about the properties and behavior of an object.

Python Staticmethod, Classmethod And Instancemethod

We have three types of class based methods in python. They are 1.static method, 2.class method and 3.instance method. When we are working with classes we will have to deal with different types of scenarios. Based on the scenario we have to use the one of the method types. Let's get started with these python methods.