Can Python π functions return multiple values?
Well, it's complicated...
Let me explain π
Well, it's complicated...
Let me explain π
Strictly speaking, the answer is NO, Python π functions cannot return multiple values...
But if they can't, then how can I explain this code π
But if they can't, then how can I explain this code π
We can better understand what is going on if we import the module `dis` (as in DISassemble).
With the module `dis`, we can get a lower level view on what Python is doing under the hood π
The LOAD_CONST line shows that the `42, 73, 0` I wrote is actually a tuple!
With the module `dis`, we can get a lower level view on what Python is doing under the hood π
The LOAD_CONST line shows that the `42, 73, 0` I wrote is actually a tuple!
So, in essence, when we write a `return` statement with comma-separated values, we are actually bundling them into a _single_ return value:
A tuple.
That's why I can call the same function `foo` and assign the result to a single variable π
A tuple.
That's why I can call the same function `foo` and assign the result to a single variable π
This shows that, strictly speaking, Python functions only return single values; they only return single objects.
The fact that one object can be a collection of _other objects_ is a whole other story.
HOWEVER, Python π also supports unpacking:
mathspp.com/blog/pydonts/dβ¦
The fact that one object can be a collection of _other objects_ is a whole other story.
HOWEVER, Python π also supports unpacking:
mathspp.com/blog/pydonts/dβ¦
That's the feature that let's us write multiple variables on the left of the function call π
By returning a tuple and immediately using unpacking assignments, it _looks like_ Python π can return multiple values from a function.
Did it make sense?
By returning a tuple and immediately using unpacking assignments, it _looks like_ Python π can return multiple values from a function.
Did it make sense?
I hope you got something out of this thread.
My name is Rodrigo and this is what I like to do: teaching Python π
If you'd like daily Python content on your timeline, follow me @mathsppblog.
My name is Rodrigo and this is what I like to do: teaching Python π
If you'd like daily Python content on your timeline, follow me @mathsppblog.
Remember:
Strictly speaking (from the Python π language point of view), functions cannot return multiple values.
When you return comma-separated values, you are actually returning ONE tuple.
However, by using unpacking, you can do the next best thing and mimic that behaviour.
Strictly speaking (from the Python π language point of view), functions cannot return multiple values.
When you return comma-separated values, you are actually returning ONE tuple.
However, by using unpacking, you can do the next best thing and mimic that behaviour.
This thread was very well-received, so I made a short YouTube video on this subject:
β’ β’ β’
Missing some Tweet in this thread? You can try to
force a refresh
γ
