How do I define a function in Python?

There are two keyword to define a function in Python: "def" and "return". The structure is always the same: def function_name(input1, input2 = 2): [INDENT] "main body" return output Remember that in Python using the ":" at the end of the definition line and indenting the following lines is essential. Every output is placed after the keyword return. The inputs can be mandatory or optional. Every optional input need to be given a default value, like this: optional_input = Default_value. Finally, it is good practice to put all the mandatory inputs first, and then the optional ones.

SG
Answered by Stefania G. Python tutor

2160 Views

See similar Python Mentoring tutors

Related Python Mentoring answers

All answers ▸

What can I do with Python?


What is the difference between a cycle "if" and "while"?


Using the shared code editor, write a recursive function for calculating a factorial of an input parameter.


Write a recursive function that takes any integer n and prints the nth Fibonacci number.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning