class

Learn to define classes with class and __init__.

Defining a class

A class is a template used to create objects. In Python a class starts with the class keyword, followed by the class name, a colon and an indented body.

Example: class User:\n pass. Here User is the class name; pass fills an empty body. The class name must start with a letter; starting with an uppercase letter is a good habit. Defining a class does not run it; it only prepares the template.

Body and indentation

The class body is the indented area after the colon. In Python indentation is given with spaces; four spaces is common. If the body is empty, write pass; otherwise you get a SyntaxError.

Example: class Book:\n pass. Here the body holds only pass. Later we will add attributes and methods to the body. For now an empty body is enough.

Exercise Define the User class

Define a class named User; its body should be pass. After the class, write print("User class defined").

Show example solution

# Define the User class
class User:
    pass

print("User class defined")

Test yourself

Which is a valid Python class definition?
- class User:\n pass
- function User():\n pass
- User class:\n pass
- def class User:\n pass
Show answer

class User:\n pass — The class keyword, the class name and a colon lead into the indented body.

Complete the class definition

class Book____
    pass

Show answer

class Book:
    pass

Match the parts of a class

class

Keyword
Book

Class name
:

Body start

Next lesson: Attributes

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