Parameters and arguments in Python - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What is a parameter in a Python function?

A parameter is a named variable in a function definition that acts as a placeholder for the value that will be passed to the function when it is called.

beginner

What is an argument in Python?

An argument is the actual value or data you provide to a function when you call it. It fills the parameter's placeholder.

beginner

Explain the difference between parameters and arguments with an example.

In def greet(name):, name is a parameter. When you call greet('Alice'), 'Alice' is the argument passed to the parameter name.

intermediate

What happens if you call a function without providing an argument for a parameter that has no default value?

Python will raise a TypeError because the function expects an argument for that parameter but none was given.

intermediate

What are default parameters in Python functions?

Default parameters are parameters that have a default value assigned in the function definition. If no argument is provided for them, the default value is used.

In the function definition def add(x, y):, what are x and y?

A Parameters

B Arguments

C Functions

D Variables outside the function

x and y are parameters because they are placeholders in the function definition.

What is the argument in the call add(3, 5)?

A x and y

B add

C 3 and 5

D Function name

The values 3 and 5 are arguments passed to the function.

What error occurs if you call greet(name) without an argument?

A SyntaxError

B ValueError

C NameError

D TypeError

A TypeError occurs because the required argument is missing.

Which of these is a correct way to define a default parameter?

A def greet('Friend' = name):

B def greet(name='Friend'):

C def greet(name): name='Friend'

D def greet(name): return 'Friend'

Default parameters are set in the function definition like name='Friend'.

If a function has parameters a, b=2, what happens when you call it with func(5)?

A a=5 and b=2 (default used)

B a=2 and b=5

C Error because b is missing

D Both a and b are 5

Parameter b uses its default value 2 when no argument is given.

Explain in your own words the difference between parameters and arguments in Python functions.

Think about how you prepare a recipe (parameters) and how you actually cook with ingredients (arguments).

Describe what happens if you call a function without providing all required arguments.

Imagine forgetting to bring an ingredient to cook a recipe.