Keyword Argument

Definition

A keyword argument is a way of passing arguments to a function in Python where the argument is identified by a named parameter rather than just its position in the function call. This allows for more flexibility and readability in function calls.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Keyword arguments allow for more flexible and readable function calls, as the argument names make it clear what each argument represents.
2. Keyword arguments can be provided in any order, as long as the parameter names match the function definition.
3. Keyword arguments can be combined with positional arguments, but the positional arguments must come before the keyword arguments.
4. Keyword arguments can have default values, which are used if no argument is provided for that parameter in the function call.
5. Keyword arguments are particularly useful when a function has many parameters, as they make it easier to remember which argument goes with which parameter.

Review Questions

• Explain how keyword arguments differ from positional arguments in Python function calls.
  • Keyword arguments are identified by the parameter name, while positional arguments are identified by their order in the function call. Keyword arguments provide more flexibility and readability, as you can specify the arguments by name rather than relying on their position. This makes it easier to remember which argument goes with which parameter, especially for functions with many parameters. Keyword arguments can also be provided in any order, as long as the parameter names match the function definition.
• Describe how keyword arguments can be combined with default arguments in a Python function.
  • Keyword arguments can be combined with default arguments to provide even more flexibility in function calls. When a function has default arguments, you can choose to either provide a value for that parameter or use the default value. Keyword arguments allow you to specify which parameters you want to provide values for, while the default values are used for any unspecified parameters. This can be particularly useful when a function has many parameters, some of which have sensible default values. By using keyword arguments and default arguments together, you can create functions that are easy to call and understand.
• Analyze the benefits of using keyword arguments in complex Python functions with many parameters.
  • Using keyword arguments in complex Python functions with many parameters provides several key benefits. First, it enhances the readability and understandability of the function calls, as the argument names make it clear what each argument represents. This is especially helpful when the function has many parameters, as it becomes easier to remember which argument goes with which parameter. Second, keyword arguments allow for more flexible function calls, as the arguments can be provided in any order, as long as the parameter names match. This can save time and reduce the likelihood of errors when calling the function. Finally, keyword arguments can be combined with default arguments to provide sensible fallback values for parameters, further improving the usability and robustness of complex functions. Overall, the use of keyword arguments is a best practice for writing Python functions that are easy to use and maintain.

Related terms

Positional Argument: A positional argument is a function argument that is identified by its position in the function call, rather than by a named parameter.

Default Argument: A default argument is a function parameter that has a predefined value, which is used if no argument is provided for that parameter in the function call.

Argument Unpacking: Argument unpacking is a way of passing a sequence (such as a list or tuple) as individual arguments to a function, using the * operator.