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Defining Functions

Functions package behavior into reusable units with a name, parameters, and a body. They improve readability, avoid repetition, and make testing simpler.

def greet(name):
    return f"Hello, {name}"

# Multiple returns
def divmod_pair(a, b):
    return a // b, a % b
q, r = divmod_pair(7, 3)

# Docstring
def add(a, b):
    """Return the sum of a and b."""
    return a + b

% Define a function in its own file (greet.m) or as a local function
function s = greet(name)
  s = ["Hello, " name];
end

% Multiple outputs
function [q, r] = divmod_pair(a, b)
  q = floor(a / b);
  r = mod(a, b);
end

Gotchas

  • In Python, functions are first-class values (they can be passed around and assigned).
  • Matlab functions usually live in their own files or as local/subfunctions; be aware of file naming conventions.
  • Keep functions small and focused — prefer many small functions to one large function.