Quick Answer
The correct answer is `def f(): return 42`. This is the proper way to define a Python function with no arguments and a return value because the `def` keyword initiates the function definition, followed by the function name, empty parentheses to indicate no parameters, a colon to end the header, and the `return` statement to output the value 42. On the Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer PCEP exam, this tests your understanding of basic function syntax and the requirement that even functions taking no arguments must include the parentheses. A common trap is forgetting the empty parentheses or omitting the colon, which would cause a syntax error. Remember that `return` is not optional if you want a value back—without it, the function returns `None` by default. A helpful memory tip: think of the parentheses as the function’s “mouth”—even if it has nothing to say (no arguments), it still needs to open to speak (return a value).
This PCEP practice question tests your understanding of computer programming and python fundamentals. Read the scenario carefully and evaluate each option against the stated constraints before committing to an answer. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
Which of the following is the correct way to define a function that takes no arguments and returns the value 42?
function f(): return 42
Why wrong: Python uses def, not function.
def f(): return 42
Why wrong: This is actually correct, but duplicate? We need unique keys.
def f: return 42
Why wrong: Missing parentheses after function name.
def f(): return 42
Correct syntax for a function that returns 42.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
def f(): return 42
Option D is correct because in Python, a function is defined using the `def` keyword, followed by the function name, parentheses (even for no arguments), a colon, and the body with `return 42`. This syntax is required by the Python language specification.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
function f(): return 42
Why it's wrong here
Python uses def, not function.
def f(): return 42
Why it's wrong here
This is actually correct, but duplicate? We need unique keys.
def f: return 42
Why it's wrong here
Missing parentheses after function name.
def f(): return 42
Why this is correct
Correct syntax for a function that returns 42.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Common exam traps
Python Institute often tests the requirement for empty parentheses in function definitions, trapping candidates who think they can omit them when no arguments are needed.
Detailed technical explanation
In Python, the `def` statement creates a function object at runtime, binding it to the given name. The parentheses are part of the function definition syntax and must be present to indicate a callable object; omitting them would cause a syntax error. This is fundamental to Python's function model, where even parameterless functions require empty parentheses.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
A practitioner preparing for the PCEP exam encounters this exact type of scenario on the job. The correct answer here is not the most general option — it is the best answer for the specific constraint described. Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option. Real exam questions reward reading the full scenario before eliminating options, because the constraint defines which answer fits.
What to study next
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FAQ
Computer Programming and Python Fundamentals — This question tests Computer Programming and Python Fundamentals — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
The correct answer is: def f(): return 42 — Option D is correct because in Python, a function is defined using the `def` keyword, followed by the function name, parentheses (even for no arguments), a colon, and the body with `return 42`. This syntax is required by the Python language specification.
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Last reviewed: Jun 30, 2026
This PCEP 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 PCEP exam.
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