Understanding How to Call Parent Methods from a Child Class in Python super() vs ParentClass

Discover the best practices for calling parent methods from a child class in Python. We explore `super()` and direct class references, discussing clarity, common usage, and more.
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Understanding How to Call Parent Methods from a Child Class in Python

In object-oriented programming with Python, inheritance allows a child class to leverage methods from its parent class. This often leads to situations where you need to override a method in the child class but still wish to access the parent’s version of that method. This raises an interesting question: What are the best ways to call parent methods from a child class?

Let’s delve into the topic by examining two common methods: using super() and directly calling the method through the parent class. We will compare these methods in terms of popularity, clarity, and best practices.

The Methods of Calling Parent Class Methods

1. Using super()

The super() function is a built-in function in Python that returns a temporary object of the superclass (parent class) that allows you to call its methods.

Example:

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Why use super()?

Common Usage: Most Python developers tend to lean toward using super() for calling parent methods. It’s a widely accepted practice due to its ability to support multiple inheritance scenarios effectively.

Flexibility: Using super() enables the method resolution order (MRO) to determine which parent class method to call, making the code less prone to bugs if the inheritance structure changes.

2. Using Direct Parent Class Reference

The second approach involves directly referencing the parent class by its name to call its methods.

Example:

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Why use direct class reference?

Simplicity: If you’re working with a straightforward inheritance structure and want to emphasize the relationship between the child and parent class, this method can be clearer.

Which Method is More Popular and Preferred?

While both methods have their uses, it’s generally acknowledged that the super() method is more common among Python programmers. Here are a few more points to consider in favor of super():

Supports Multiple Inheritance: In cases where multiple inheritance is in play, super() provides a robust and error-free way to access methods in a hierarchy.

No Need for Parent Class Name: With super(), you don’t have to worry about changes in parent class names, making your code resilient to change.

Conclusion

Choosing between super() and direct parent class reference depends on the specific needs of your project and personal preference. Generally speaking, super() should be your go-to option for accessing parent methods in child classes due to its flexibility and support for complex inheritance scenarios. However, if clarity is vital for your code’s audience, the direct approach may be appropriate. Always consider the context and future maintainability of your code when making these decisions.

By understanding these approaches better, you can write more efficient and maintainable object-oriented Python code.