Python OOP Deep Dive: Classes, Encapsulation, Magic Methods & MRO
Master Object-Oriented Programming in Python: classes, __init__, encapsulation with property decorators, multiple inheritance, and Method Resolution Order (MRO).
class SoftwareCourse:
def __init__(self, name: str, duration_weeks: int):
self._name = name # Protected attribute by convention
self._duration_weeks = duration_weeks
@property
def duration_weeks(self) -> int:
return self._duration_weeks
@duration_weeks.setter
def duration_weeks(self, weeks: int):
if weeks <= 0:
raise ValueError("Duration must be a positive integer")
self._duration_weeks = weeks
def __str__(self) -> str:
return f"{self._name} ({self._duration_weeks} Weeks)"
course = SoftwareCourse("Python Full Stack", 14)
print(course)
course.duration_weeks = 16
print("Updated duration:", course.duration_weeks)1. Classes & Instances in Python
Python treats classes as first-class objects. The __init__ constructor initializes attributes on the newly created instance referenced by self.
2. Encapsulation & Property Decorators
Python does not enforce private variables at the bytecode level. Instead, the community adheres to naming conventions: single underscore (_var) denotes protected fields, while double underscore (__var) triggers name mangling to prevent subclass collisions. Use @property to implement getters and setters cleanly.
- Dunder methods like __str__ and __repr__ enable custom string representations and operator overloading.
- Python supports multiple inheritance resolved through the C3 Linearization algorithm (MRO).
- Prefer dataclasses for simple structured data models.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of self in Python methods?
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