Python return keyword

The Python return keyword is used to specify the value to be returned during a function call.

A function is a block of reusable code designed to perform a specific task. Functions can take input arguments, process them, and return a result.

The ‘return’ keyword serves the purpose of conveying a value from a function back to the caller.

Whenever a function is executed and encounters the ‘return’ statement, it immediately stops its execution and sends the specified value back to the caller.

This value can be of any data type – be it a number, string, list, dictionary, or even another function.

Here’s a simple example to illustrate the concept:

Returning values with ‘return’ keyword

def my_function():
    # Function code here
    return value

Here, ‘my_function’ is the name of the function, and ‘value’ is the data that the function will return to the caller.

This means that as soon as a ‘return’ statement is encountered, the function terminates, and the specified value is passed back.

Returning multiple values

Python’s ‘return’ statement isn’t limited to returning a single value.

It’s possible to return multiple values from a function, typically in the form of a tuple.

This feature is particularly useful when a function needs to provide more than one piece of information to the caller.

def rectangle(length, width):
    area = length * width
    perimeter = 2 * (length + width)
    return area, perimeter

area, perimeter = rectangle(4, 6)
print("Area:", area)
print("Perimeter:", perimeter)

Output:

24
20

Conclusion

The ‘return’ keyword in Python is a fundamental building block that empowers developers to create reusable, modular, and efficient code.

By grasping its syntax, understanding its purpose, and applying best practices, you’ll be better equipped to design functions that seamlessly integrate with the rest of your Python programs.