Python - Functions, Modules and Packages

Functions, Modules and Packages - Python module Y105

In Python, blocks of code can be named. Such named blocks of code can be run from elsewhere in your program, and are known as functions. A module is a text file that contains a number of functions and other items, and a package is a group of related modules.

This topic is presented on public course Python Programming

Examples from our training material

dream	Good structure of named blocks of code
electric.py	a generator function - carries on where it left off at previous call
extrastep.py	importing a name from a module into the current namespace
fat.py	A second program that uses shared functions in mod2.py
flook.py	Program to use a module and the attributes of its functions
fun.py	definition and use of a function
gen2	Using a generator function to provide an iteration
genex	Generator v regular function
local.py	File of functions to be loaded by other examples
locvar.py	Local and global variables
mapfunc.py	Use of the map function to transform a list
mod2.py	A module with doc strings and attributes defined
mod_demo.py	Program that uses the module in local.py
mystuff.py	functions, statics, test code, doc strings ...
params.py	Optional parameters, and variable number of parameters
passenger	Calling program - sample answer with separate module for functions
qv2	Example that uses mystuff.py
qv3	alternative example using mystuff.py
recur.py	Recursion - when a function calls itself
sheep.py	A Lambda function - one line function definition
silksheets.py	Functions that we'll share between applications
slumbermore	Good structure of named blocks of code
snoresleep	A further Good structure of named blocks of code
sweetdream	Another example of a module reuse
sysdemo.py	use of a standard module (sys)
tax.py	functions to work out tax and net from gross
taxi	Exercise answer - net and tax from gross amount

Opentalk forum discussions related to this topic

Should I use from or import
Variable scope in Python
Common Python questions

Pictures

Studious group during a practical

Background information

Some modules are available for download as a sample of our material or under an Open Training Notes License for free download from http://www.training-notes.co.uk.

Topics covered in this module

Why use functions.
A first function.
A first module.
More flexibility in calling functions.
Doc strings and function attributes.
Defining your own attributes.
Variable scope.
Advanced function capabilities and recent additions.
Lambda example.
Generator Example.
Recursion.
Built-in modules.

Complete learning

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We have a technical library of over 600 books on the subjects on which we teach. These books are available for reference at our training centre. Also available is the Opentalk Forum for discussion of technical questions.