What are class methods in Python?

Can you explain what class methods are in Python?

Sure! Class methods in Python are methods that are bound to the class rather than its instance. They can modify class state that applies across all instances.

How do you define a class method?

You define a class method using the @classmethod decorator. The first parameter is usually named cls, which refers to the class itself.

Can you give me an example of a class method?

Of course! Here's a simple example:

class MyClass:
    class_variable = 0

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

What is the difference between class methods and instance methods?

The main difference is that instance methods operate on an instance of the class and can access instance variables, while class methods operate on the class itself and can access class variables.