A Python function is a callable you can invoke directly; a method is a function accessed through an object, usually with dot notation. For an ordinary instance method, Python supplies the instance as the first argument automatically: greeter.greet("Sam") is equivalent to Greeter.greet(greeter, "Sam"). The important distinction is how the callable is accessed and whether Python binds an object or class to it.
What is a Python function?
A function is a callable object. You can define one independently of a class and call it by its name, passing the arguments it expects:
def double(number):
return number * 2
double(3) # 6The function receives the arguments you explicitly pass. Python’s Python 3.14 tutorial on control flow introduces function definitions and describes methods as functions that belong to objects.
What is a method?
A method is commonly a function accessed through an object using attribute notation, as in object.method(...). For example, append is a list method:
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchPC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
values = []
values.append(3)The Python tutorial describes append() as adding an element to the end of a list. In its example, the effect can also be expressed as result = result + [a]; the tutorial notes that append() is more efficient in that particular example, not that methods are generally faster than functions.
What happens to the first argument?
When a function is defined in a class and accessed through an instance, Python creates a bound method. Calling it supplies that instance as the first argument. Consider:
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
class Greeter:
def greet(self, name):
return f"Hello, {name}"
greeter = Greeter()
greeter.greet("Sam")Here, Python passes greeter as the first argument to greet. The call greeter.greet("Sam") is equivalent to Greeter.greet(greeter, "Sam"). The class-level form makes the instance argument explicit. The Python 3.14 classes tutorial explains this method-call behavior.
Why is the parameter called self?
self is the conventional name for an instance method’s first parameter, but it is not a Python keyword. Binding depends on accessing the function through an instance, not on the parameter’s spelling. You could use another valid parameter name, though following the convention makes code easier for other Python programmers to read.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsRank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
How can you inspect a bound method?
Python’s data model reference describes two useful attributes: method.__self__ is the object the method is bound to, and method.__func__ is the original function object.
Are all methods bound to an instance?
No. Ordinary instance methods are the common beginner example, but Python has other binding behavior, and a function does not become bound merely because it is stored on an instance.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Instance methods
Accessing a function defined on a class through an instance binds that instance as the first argument. The usual self parameter receives it.
Class methods
A classmethod binds the class as its first argument, whether it is accessed through the class or an instance. In the data model’s terms, the bound method’s __self__ is the class rather than an instance.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Functions assigned directly to an instance
A function placed directly on an instance attribute is not automatically converted into a bound method. The automatic instance binding described above applies when the function is defined on a class and accessed through an instance.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Function vs. method at a glance
| Question | Function | Method |
|---|---|---|
| How is it called? | Directly, such as double(3). |
Usually through an object attribute, such as values.append(3). |
| What happens to arguments? | It receives the arguments passed to it. | An ordinary bound instance method receives its instance as the first argument automatically. |
| What may be bound? | A standalone function has no instance or class bound through this method-access behavior. | An instance method binds an instance; a class method binds the class. |
When should you use each term?
Call something a function when you mean a callable invoked directly, independent of an object’s method access. Call it a method when it is exposed through an object or class as an attribute and has method-style binding behavior. In everyday code, “method” most often refers to an instance method, but naming the method type matters when explaining whether Python supplies an instance, a class, or neither.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
