Built-in Functions

Learning Objectives Define what a built-in function is and explain its purpose. Identify and use common built-in functions for mathematical operations like abs(), max(), and min(). Use built-in functions to convert data types, such as int(), str(), and float(). Explain how to find the length of a string or list using the len() function. Use the round() function to round numbers to a specified decimal place. Combine multiple built-in functions to solve a single problem. Describe the difference between a function's input (argument) and its output (return value). Ever wonder how your calculator instantly knows an answer or a game knows your high score? 🤖 It's not magic, it's the power of built-in functions! In this lesson, we'll explore special pre-made...

TermDefinitionExample Built-in FunctionA pre-written command in a programming language that performs a specific task. You don't have to write the code for it; you can just call it by its name.The `print()` function is a built-in function that displays text on the screen. Argument (Input)The value or information you give to a function inside its parentheses for it to work on.In `print("Hello")`, the argument is the string "Hello". Return Value (Output)The result or answer that a function gives back after it has finished its task.The function `len("cat")` returns the value `3`. Data Type ConversionThe process of changing a value from one data type to another, like from text (a string) to a whole number (an integer).`int("123")` converts the strin...

Calling a Function function_name(argument1, argument2, ...) To use a function, you write its name followed by parentheses. Inside the parentheses, you place the arguments (inputs) the function needs, separated by commas if there are more than one. Storing a Return Value variable_name = function_name(argument) Many functions give back a result (a return value). To save this result for later use, you must assign it to a variable using the equals sign (=). Nesting Functions outer_function(inner_function(argument)) You can use the return value of one function as the argument for another function. The inner function runs first, and its output becomes the input for the outer function.