Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming

Python tutorial · PySpark.in

Introduction to Object-Oriented

Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) is one of the most powerful ways to structure and organize Python programs.
It helps you build applications that are modular, reusable, and easy to maintain.

What is OOP?

OOP (Object-Oriented Programming) is a programming paradigm where your code is organized around objects and classes.

Class → Blueprint or template
Object → Instance created from a class
Attributes → Data stored inside an object
Methods → Functions inside a class

In simple words:
OOP lets you group related data and behavior together.

Why Use OOP?

1. Reusability

Use inheritance to reuse code instead of writing it again.

2. Modularity

Break a complex program into smaller, manageable parts.

3. Encapsulation

Protect and hide internal details of a class.

4. Polymorphism

Use one interface for different behaviors.

5. Easy Maintenance

OOP code is easier to update, expand, and debug.

OOP vs Procedural Programming

Procedural Programming	Object-Oriented Programming
Focuses on functions	Focuses on classes & objects
Data and functions are separate	Data + functions bundled together
Less reusable	Highly reusable
Example: add(), subtract()	Example: Calculator class

OOP Concepts in Python

Python supports all major OOP concepts:

Class

A blueprint for creating objects.

Object

An instance of a class.

Inheritance

One class inherits the properties and methods of another class.

Polymorphism

Methods with the same name behave differently based on the object.

Encapsulation

Restricting direct access to object data.

Abstraction

Showing only essential features while hiding complex details.

Basic Example in Python

class Car:
 def __init__(self, brand, model):
 self.brand = brand
 self.model = model
 def start(self):
 print(f"{self.brand} {self.model} is starting...")
# Creating object
car1 = Car("Tesla", "Model S")
car1.start()

▶ Output will appear here.

What happens here?

car→ class
car1→object
_init_→constructor that initializes object values
start()→method that performs an action

Why OOP is Important in Python?

OOP helps you build applications that are:

More organized
Easy to debug
Reusable
Extensible (easy to add features)
Scalable for large projects

Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming