Python | Exploring the syntax and usage of super() to call methods or access attributes from the superclass within a subclass

super()

Python is a powerful programming language that comes with a vast range of built-in functions that can make coding easier and more efficient. One such function is "super()". The super() function is used to call a method in a parent class from a subclass. In this article, we will take a closer look at the super() function, what it does, and how it can be used in Python programming.

What is the super() function in Python?

In Python, the super() function is used to call a method in a parent class from a subclass. This is useful when we want to inherit some properties or methods from a parent class and then override or extend them in the subclass. By calling the parent class method using super(), we can ensure that the parent class method is executed correctly, while also allowing the subclass to add additional functionality.

How does the super() function work?

The super() function works by returning a temporary object of the superclass, which then allows you to call its methods. You can use the super() function in two different ways:

With arguments: You can pass the subclass and the object instance to super() to get the superclass object that you can then use to call its methods. For example:

class ParentClass:

def my_method(self):

print("Hello from the ParentClass method!")

class ChildClass(ParentClass):

def my_method(self):

super(ChildClass, self).my_method()

print("Hello from the ChildClass method!")

obj = ChildClass()

obj.my_method()

In this example, we define a ParentClass with a method called "my_method". We then define a ChildClass that inherits from the ParentClass and overrides the "my_method" method. Inside the ChildClass "my_method" method, we use super() to call the "my_method" method of the ParentClass and then add some additional functionality. When we create an instance of the ChildClass and call the "my_method" method, we get the following output:

Hello from the ParentClass method!

Hello from the ChildClass method!

Without arguments: You can also use super() without passing any arguments to get the superclass object, and then use it to call its methods. For example:

class ParentClass:

def my_method(self):

print("Hello from the ParentClass method!")

class ChildClass(ParentClass):

def my_method(self):

super().my_method()

print("Hello from the ChildClass method!")

obj = ChildClass()

obj.my_method()

In this example, we define the same ParentClass and ChildClass as before, but we use super() without arguments to get the superclass object. We then use this object to call the "my_method" method of the ParentClass and add some additional functionality in the ChildClass "my_method" method. When we create an instance of the ChildClass and call the "my_method" method, we get the same output as before:

Hello from the ParentClass method!

Hello from the ChildClass method!

Conclusion

In conclusion, the super() function is a useful built-in function in Python that allows you to call a method in a parent class from a subclass. By using super(), you can ensure that the parent class method is executed correctly while also allowing the subclass to add additional functionality. The super() function can be used in two different ways, either with or without arguments, depending on your needs. Overall, the super() function is a powerful tool in Python programming that can help you create more efficient and flexible code.