Python Basics · Functions · Lesson 13 of 36
Return Values
Concept
Return Values
return sends a value back to the caller and immediately ends the function. Without it, a function returns None.
A function can return multiple values at once as a tuple, which the caller can then unpack into separate variables.
By the end of this lesson
- Explain the core idea behind Return Values.
- Predict output before running a change.
- Test one realistic and one unusual input.
- Use the result to make the next decision.
How to study this page
- 1. Read one concept.
- 2. Change the example.
- 3. Run, compare, and explain.
- 4. Complete the challenge below.
Returning multiple values
def min_max(numbers):
return min(numbers), max(numbers)
low, high = min_max([4, 1, 9, 2])
print(low, high)Self-check before continuing
Without looking at the example, describe what changes when you modify one input in Return Values. Then reopen the editor and prove your explanation with a small test.
You are ready to continue when you can predict, test, and explain the result.
Your turn
Write a function that returns both the sum and the product of two numbers as a tuple.
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Console