What is the difference between static methods and class methods in Python?

What is the difference between static methods and class methods in Python?

In Python, static methods do not require a class instance and can be called on the class itself. Class methods, on the other hand, take a reference to the class as their first parameter and can modify class state.

Can you give me an example of each?

Sure! Here's a static method example:

class MyClass:
    @staticmethod
    def static_method():
        return 'This is a static method.'

And a class method example:

class MyClass:
    class_variable = 0

    @classmethod
    def class_method(cls):
        cls.class_variable += 1
        return cls.class_variable

When should I use a static method instead of a class method?

Use static methods when you don't need to access or modify class state. Use class methods when you need to access or modify class-level data.