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Python Python Basics All Together Now Cleaner Code Through Refactoring

Posted by nicolaspeterson
nicolaspeterson
8,569 Points

Difference between number_of_tickets and num_tickets?

Can someone quickly explain what the difference is between these two? Why is the former set as the parameter of the function calculate_price when the variable we store and pass in later on is num_tickets? It's a bit confusing...

freddie
freddie
2,762 Points

def price_calculation(varible_number_defined_by_user): return varible_number_defined_by_user * TICKET_PRICE + SERVICE_CHARGE

it might help

1 Answer

Steven Parker
Steven Parker
242,030 Points
Steven Parker
Steven Parker
242,030 Points

While num_tickets is a program variable, number_of_tickets is just a function parameter name that acts as a placeholder for the actual value that will be supplied when the function is used.

Parameter names can be anything, but it is considered a "best practice" to use a name that suggests what kind of contents the parameter will hold.

N K
N K
375 Points
N K
N K
375 Points

Could we make them the same (like both num_tickets) or would that mess up the code?

Steven Parker
Steven Parker
242,030 Points
Steven Parker
Steven Parker
242,030 Points

Technically, you can use the same name for both things, but it not recommended as it can be confusing for someone working on the code (even for you, if you go back to it at a later date). It also causes a side effect known as "shadowing", making the global variable not accessible from within the function where it otherwise would be.