With the growing complexity of modern software, it has become significant to write clean, readable, and maintainable code. The days are gone when developers write the same code repeatedly, but now with the help of functions, smart structuring has become a new trend. Whether you are writing a small automation script or building large-scale applications, using functions in the right way is important to improve code readability and maintenance.
In this blog, we’ll take you step by step through what Python functions are, how to create and use them, with some handy tips, along with why to hire dedicated Python developers to build scalable solutions for you.
What Are Python Functions?
It is a named block of code that performs a specific task. Developers name it, specify its task, and reuse it whenever required, without mentioning steps again.
There are two types of functions in Python:
- Built-in functions such as print ( ), len ( ), type ( ), int ( ), or str ( ).
- User-defined functions that developers build by themselves
User-defined functions are helpful to avoid repetition, for reusability, and to make debugging, readability, and maintainability easy. It is also useful, especially when businesses plan Python development outsourcing for long-term solutions.
How to Define a Function in Python
Defining a function in Python is simple by starting the code with def (). Then add the name of the function. Here is an example with which you can easily understand:
def send_confirmation_message():
print(“Confirmation message sent to the user’s email address.”)
Consider this a mock example, but it will help you understand how to send a confirmation email using a function and how to define a function:
- () When defining Python that you are defining a function
- The send confirmation message is the name of the function
- () means there are no parameters for now
- The other part is the function’s body
Businesses often hire dedicated Python developers to use this approach, which will keep their code organized and reduce the chances of bugs.
How to Call a Function in Python
Once you define a function, you have to call it to make it work. Here is the example:
send_confirmation_message()
Which will give results like:
Confirmation message sent to the user’s email address.
You have the option to call the function multiple times, like:
send_confirmation_message()
send_confirmation_message()
This is very useful for large-scale businesses that need to repeat this step multiple times, which will save developers time and extra effort.
Using Parameters in Functions
Use of parameters in functions is optional, but valuable if you want to reuse that function a couple of times. The example we discussed above of send_confirmation_message() has a parameter missing; let’s add a parameter to it:
def send_confirmation_message(email):
print(f”Confirmation message sent to {email}.”)
Here (email) is the parameter. However, there are two options for using the parameter:
1- Function with a Single Parameter
In this function, you can only add one parameter or value, as in the above example, we just added email.
def send_confirmation_message(email):
print(f”Confirmation message sent to {email}.”)
Can be used like:
send_confirmation_message(“sara@example.com”)
Result:
Confirmation message sent to sara@example.com.
Additionally, use ‘f’ for a formatted string.
2- Function with Multiple Parameters
You can add more than one value with multiple parameters, such as:
def send_confirmation_message(name, email):
print(f”Hi {name}, your confirmation message was sent to {email}.”)
Can be used like:
send_confirmation_message(“Sara”, “sara@example.com”)
Result:
Hi Sara, your confirmation message was sent to sara@example.com.
With the help of these parameters, developers ensure that to can build more dynamic applications.
Returning Values from a Function
Beyond printing, the function can also return the results or data that is technically demanded in today’s programming language. It is important to understand the return statement when learning functions for the following reasons:
- Reusability of function
- Data handling
- Simple and clean code
- Streamline testing
- Practical in data processing, automation, or financial calculations
For example:
def double_it(number):
return number * 2
Developers can save the results or use them straight away.
result = double_it(5)
print(result) # Prints: 10
Businesses that conduct data-heavy or function-based applications often hire dedicated PHP developers to fully leverage well-structured return values.
Tips for Writing Functions in Python
Even if you are a beginner, a software agency, or an organization working with an outsourced team, these tips would be highly beneficial for you:
- Use easily recognizable and clear names such as final_price, send_email (), or double_it, rather than do_stuff or FP.
- Keep your function focused and short
- Use f-strings for cleaner output
- Provide parameters, backup, and default value
- Save your functions by documenting them using docstrings
- Test it to ensure your function will work
Python development agencies, like Devace Technologies, make sure their developers follow these tips and practices to enhance the quality of code.
Conclusion
Defining and calling functions in Python is a simple process if you follow the right guide. Python developers need to learn these basics to make their code better, cleaner, and easier to maintain. Additionally, businesses can also benefit by reducing the chances of bugs and development time. If you are growing or need any guidance, it is the best option to hire dedicated Python developers or consult a Python development agency.