Defining Functions

Abstract

The fifth chapter introduces the reader to defining functions. Since the first chapter, functions have been used. In chapter five the reader is introduced to writing their own functions. Other topics related to defining functions are covered including parameter passing and return values, scope of variables, and the run-time stack. Top-down and bottom-up design are illustrated as well in relationship to defining functions.

The varied parameter passing mechanisms of Python are explored including keyword arguments, default values, and dictionary parameter passing. The nuances of mutable data and parameter passing are also explored. In summary, chapter five goes over all the necessary mechanics of defining functions so that programmers learn to modularize their code as they learn to program.