3. Self

3.1. Self in variables

The self parameter is used to access variables that belong to the class as instance variables.

The dot, ‘.’, operator is then used to access the object variable.

e.g. self.game_level

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3.2. Self in methods

Class functions use the self parameter (first parameter) to reference the current instance of the class.

class LevelGame:
    def __init__(self, game_level):
        self.game_level = game_level

It does not have to be named self, but it makes it easier for others if it is used, since that is common practice.

The code below uses “game” instead of “self”.

Since this is not expected, it makes it harder for another programmer to read it fluently.

class LevelGame:
    def __init__(game, game_level):
        game.game_level = game_level