Classmethod vs Staticmethod: Key Differences
A class has both `@classmethod` and `@staticmethod` decorators. What is a key difference between them?
Quick Answer
The correct choice is the one stating that a classmethod receives the class as its first implicit argument. This is the fundamental technical distinction: a `@classmethod` is bound to the class and automatically receives `cls` as its first parameter, giving it direct access to class-level attributes and methods, whereas a `@staticmethod` receives no implicit first argument and behaves exactly like a regular function defined inside the class, unable to interact with the class or its instances. On the Certified Associate Python Programmer PCAP exam, this concept tests your understanding of decorators and object-oriented design, often appearing in questions that ask you to identify which method can modify class state or why a staticmethod is used for utility functions. A common trap is confusing staticmethods with classmethods because both can be called on the class itself, but remember: classmethods get the class, staticmethods get nothing. For a quick memory tip, think “classmethod gets the class, staticmethod stays static.”
⚠ Common exam trap
Python Institute often tests the misconception that classmethods cannot be called on instances, leading candidates to incorrectly select option A, when in fact they can be called on instances and still receive the class as the first argument.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
A classmethod receives the class as first argument.
The key difference is that a `@classmethod` receives the class itself as the first implicit argument (conventionally named `cls`), allowing it to access or modify class-level state, while a `@staticmethod` receives no implicit first argument and behaves like a plain function, unable to access the class or instance. This makes option B correct because it accurately describes the distinguishing feature of a classmethod.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
A classmethod cannot be called on an instance.
Why it's wrong here
Both can be called on instances.
- ✓
A classmethod receives the class as first argument.
Why this is correct
That's the defining difference.
- ✗
A staticmethod must be called from the class only.
Why it's wrong here
It can also be called from instances.
- ✗
A classmethod cannot access class variables.
Why it's wrong here
It can access them via cls.
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Same concept, more angles
1 more way this is tested on PCAP
These questions test the same concept from different angles. Work through them to make sure you can recognise it however the exam phrases it.
Variation 1. A programmer writes a class with a method that should be called on the class itself, not on instances. Which decorator is appropriate?
easy- A.@property
- ✓ B.@classmethod
- C.@abstractmethod
- D.@staticmethod
Why B: The @classmethod decorator transforms a method so that it receives the class itself as the first implicit argument (cls), rather than an instance (self). This allows the method to be called on the class directly, e.g., MyClass.my_method(), and is the correct choice when a method should operate on the class level, not on instances.
JA
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This PCAP practice question is part of Courseiva's free Python Institute certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the PCAP exam.