In Python, there are three types of methods that can be defined inside a class: instance methods, class methods, and static methods. In this article, we'll focus on the staticmethod() built-in function, which is used to define static methods.
What is a static method?
A static method is a method that belongs to a class rather than an instance of the class. It does not receive an instance of the class as its first argument (i.e., the self parameter for instance methods). Static methods are typically used for utility functions that do not depend on the state of the instance or the class.
How to define a static method?
To define a static method in Python, we use the @staticmethod decorator before the method definition. Here is an example:
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class MyClass:
@staticmethod
def my_static_method():
print("This is a static method")
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In this example, we define a static method called my_static_method() inside the MyClass class. The @staticmethod decorator is used before the method definition to indicate that it is a static method.
How to call a static method?
Static methods can be called using the class name, without the need for an instance of the class. Here is an example:
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class MyClass:
@staticmethod
def my_static_method():
print("This is a static method")
MyClass.my_static_method()
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Output:
This is a static method
In this example, we call the my_static_method() static method directly on the MyClass class, without the need for an instance of the class.
When to use static methods?
Static methods are useful for defining methods that do not depend on the state of the instance or the class. Here are some examples of when to use static methods:
Conclusion
In conclusion, the staticmethod() built-in function is used to define static methods in Python. Static methods are useful for defining utility functions, helper functions, or methods that can be reused across different classes. They are called using the class name, without the need for an instance of the class.