Description

what are built in functions in python ?

# What Are Built-In Functions in Python?

## Introduction

When coding in Python, one of the most powerful aspects of the language is its vast array of built-in functions. Built-in functions are part of the Python standard library, and they are immediately available for use without the need to import any external libraries. These functions perform a wide range of tasks, from making simple mathematical computations to handling complex operations involving data types.

To better understand built-in functions, let’s start by defining them and then exploring a few commonly used ones.

## Understanding Built-In Functions

### What Are Built-In Functions?

Built-in functions in Python are directly implemented in the Python interpreter and are always available in any version or installation of Python. These functions are pre-defined and stored within the interpreter, meaning they don’t need to be explicitly imported or installed.

### Benefits of Using Built-In Functions

1. **Ease of Use:** No imports are required to use these functions, making code cleaner and more straightforward.
2. **Efficiency:** Built-in functions are highly optimized, making your code run faster.
3. **Consistency:** These functions adhere to the Python language’s design and are consistent across the board.

## Exploring Some Built-In Functions

Now, let’s dive into a few examples of built-in functions to see how they can be used in your code.

### abs() Function

The `abs()` function returns the absolute value of a given number. This is particularly useful for mathematical calculations.

“`python
print(abs(-3.6)) # Output: 3.6
“`

### compile() Function

This function compiles a source code (string, bytes, or AST object) into a code object, which can then be executed by built-in functions `exec()` or `eval()`.

“`python
source_code = “print(‘Hello, World!’)”
compiled_code = compile(source_code, ‘string’, ‘exec’)
exec(compiled_code) # Output: Hello, World!
“`

### id() Function

The `id()` function returns the identity of an object. This is an integer which is unique and constant for this object during its lifetime.

“`python
x = 10
print(id(x)) # Output: (some unique integer)
“`

### input() Function

This is used to read data from the keyboard. It waits for the user to supply input and press enter.

“`python
name = input(“Enter your name: “)
print(f”Hello, {name}!”) # Example output: Hello, John!
“`

## Where to Learn More

For a more exhaustive list of built-in functions and their descriptions, you can refer to the official Python documentation. While the documentation at [Python 3.12.4 Documentation](https://docs.python.org/3/library/functions.html) is highly detailed and authoritative, there are also several other resources online where you can learn about the built-in functions:

– [W3Schools Python Built-in Functions](https://www.w3schools.com/python/python_ref_functions.asp)
– [GeeksforGeeks Python Built-in Functions](https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/python-built-in-functions/)
– [Programiz Python Built-in Methods](https://www.programiz.com/python-programming/methods/built-in)
– [Codecademy Python Built-in Functions](https://www.codecademy.com/resources/docs/python/built-in-functions)

## Conclusion

Built-in functions streamline our Python coding process by providing reusable, powerful tools for common tasks. From basic operations like getting the absolute value to more complex functionalities like compiling source code, these functions are a fundamental part of the Python language. As you progress in your Python journey, getting to know these functions will make your life as a Python developer much easier.

So, the next time you need to perform a common task in your code, remember that Python’s built-in functions are at your disposal, ready to assist you in making your code more efficient and readable. Happy coding!

—

Pour une approche plus approfondie et des exemples détaillés, n’hésitez pas à jeter un œil aux liens recommandés ci-dessus.