Python optional parameters

Optional parameters in Python allow you to define functions that can be called with different numbers of arguments. This flexibility can make your code more versatile and easier to work with. In this tutorial, we'll explore how to use optional parameters in Python with code examples.
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A function in Python can have optional parameters. These parameters are declared within the function's parentheses and are assigned default values, making them optional to provide when calling the function.
In the example above, the greeting parameter is optional, as it has a default value of "Hello."
To define an optional parameter, assign a default value within the function's parentheses. In the absence of a provided value, the function uses the default value.
When calling a function with optional parameters, you can provide values for some, all, or none of the optional parameters.
Python allows you to call functions with both positional and keyword arguments. Positional arguments are passed in the order they are defined in the function signature, while keyword arguments explicitly specify which parameter they are intended for.
Using keyword arguments can make your code more readable, especially when calling functions with multiple optional parameters.
Sometimes, you may want to allow an arbitrary number of optional parameters. This can be achieved using the *args syntax, which allows you to pass a variable number of positional arguments. You can then process these arguments within the function.
In the display_items function, you can provide any number of items, and they will be processed as a tuple within the function.
Here are some best practices when working with optional parameters in Python:
Optional parameters can greatly improve the flexibility and usability of your Python functions. By understanding how to use them effectively, you can write cleaner and more versatile code.
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