How custom classes are created in Python?

Custom classes in Python allow you to create your own data types with specific properties and behaviors. It will make your code more modular and reusable and can be used to organize your programs into logical units and easily readable. In this article, we’ll explore how to create custom classes in Python with examples.

Custom classes in Python are created using the “class” keyword followed by the class name and a colon. Inside the class, you define methods and properties using the “def” keyword. The “init” method is a special method used to initialize the object’s properties. Custom classes allow you to create reusable code and organize your programs into logical units.

Introduction

Python is a powerful and flexible programming language that is widely used for a wide range of applications, including web development, data science, and artificial intelligence. One of the key features of Python is its support for object-oriented programming, which allows programmers to create their own classes and objects.

Below is the step-by-step guide to creating a class in python, We will also cover some best practices and tips to help you create classes that can be used in your own projects and applications.

Step 1: Define the Class Name and Properties

As a 1st step, We need to define the class name and its properties, also known as attributes. In Python, you can define a class using the class keyword, followed by the name of the class.

Example:

class BankAccount:
    account_number=""
    balance=""

In this example, we defined a class called “BankAccount” with two properties: account_number and balance but these properties are just defined but not yet initialized.

Step 2: Define the Class Methods

Once you have defined the properties of your class, you can define the methods, which are functions that can be used to manipulate the properties of the class. In Python, you can define a method by creating a function within the class definition.

Example:

class BankAccount:

    def __init__(self, account_number, balance):
        self.account_number = account_number
        self.balance = balance
    def deposit(self, amount):
        self.balance += amount

    def withdraw(self, amount):
        if self.balance >= amount:
            self.balance -= amount
        else:
            print("Insufficient balance.")

    def check_balance(self):
        return self.balance

In this example, we created a class called “BankAccount” and it has three methods: “deposit”, “withdraw”, and “check_balance”. The “__init__” method is a special method that initializes the object with the account number and balance properties.

Step 3: Create Objects from the Class

Once you have defined the class and its methods, you can create objects from the class. An object is an instance of a class, with its own set of values for the class properties.

Here’s an example of creating an object from the BankAccount class:

# Create a BankAccount object
my_account = BankAccount("123456", 1000)

# Deposit some money into the account
my_account.deposit(500)

# Withdraw some money from the account
my_account.withdraw(200)

# Check the account balance
balance = my_account.check_balance()
print("Account balance: ${}".format(balance))

Output:

Account balance: $1300

Try it Yourself -> Online python editor to try out the example (Copy paste both class & object creation step) and try changing the values and observe the difference

Example Screenshot:

In this example, we created an object called “my_account” from the “BankAccount” class with an account number of “123456” and a balance of $1000. We then deposited $500 into the account using the “deposit” method, withdrew $200 from the account using the “withdraw” method, and checked the balance using the “check_balance” method. Finally, we printed the balance to the console.

Best Practices for Creating Classes in Python

These are the best practices, that can be followed for the effective creation of classes in Python

1. Use meaningful and descriptive class names and method names.
2. Define all class properties and methods within the class definition.
3. Use the “self” keyword to refer to the instance of the class within its methods.
4. Use comments to explain the purpose of the class and its methods.
5. Test your classes thoroughly to ensure they work as expected.

Conclusion

Creating your own class in Python is a powerful way to create reusable/readable code that can be used in your own projects and applications. By following the steps and best practices outlined in this article, you can create effective and efficient classes that are easy to use and understand. So go ahead, try creating your own class today, and see how it can improve your Python programming skills!

Good Luck with your Learning !!