Object-Oriented Programming in Python Flashcards

What is the purpose of the `__str__` method in a Python class?

Answer: To return a human-readable string representation of an object

`__str__` returns a user-friendly string representation used by `print()` and `str()` functions.

Which keyword is used to inherit from a parent class in Python?

Answer: Parentheses with the parent class name in the class definition

Python uses parentheses in the class definition (e.g., `class Child(Parent):`) to indicate inheritance.

What does `super().__init__()` do in a child class?

Answer: Calls the parent class's `__init__` method to initialize inherited attributes

`super().__init__()` invokes the parent class constructor so inherited attributes are properly set up.

Which of the following best describes method overriding?

Answer: Defining a method with the same name in a child class to replace the parent's implementation

Method overriding allows a subclass to provide a specific implementation for a method already defined in its parent class.

What will `isinstance(obj, MyClass)` return if `obj` is an instance of a subclass of `MyClass`?

Answer: True

`isinstance()` returns `True` for instances of the class and all its subclasses.

Which access modifier convention in Python indicates a method is intended for internal use only?

Answer: A single underscore prefix

A single leading underscore (e.g., `_method`) is a convention signaling the method is intended for internal/protected use.

What is name mangling in Python?

Answer: Transforming `__attr` to `_ClassName__attr` to avoid name conflicts in subclasses

Name mangling transforms double-underscore prefixed names (e.g., `__x`) to `_ClassName__x` to prevent accidental override in subclasses.