Instance Variables and Methods

Instance Variables

• Definition: Instance variables are variables declared within a class but outside of any method. They belong to specific instances (objects) of a class.
• Characteristics:
  • Each object has its own copy of instance variables.
  • They are created when an object is instantiated and destroyed when the object is destroyed.
  • Accessed using the dot notation (object_name.variable_name).
  • Can be modified directly through the object.
• Example:
• Python
  • class Car:
  • def __init__(self, color, make, model):
  • self.color = color
  • self.make = make
  • self.model = model

Instance Methods

• Definition: Instance methods are functions defined within a class. They operate on the object’s data (instance variables).
• Characteristics:
  • They are accessed using the dot notation (object_name.method_name()).
  • The self parameter is implicitly passed to instance methods, representing the object itself.
  • Can modify instance variables of the object.
• Example:
• Python
  • class Car:
  • def __init__(self, color, make, model):
  • self.color = color
  • self.make = make
  • self.model = model
  • def start(self):
  • print(f"{self.make} {self.model} is starting.")

Key Points

• Instance variables store the state of an object.
• Instance methods define the behavior of an object.
• Both are essential components of object-oriented programming.

By understanding instance variables and methods, you can create well-structured and reusable classes.

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