PCEP Function definition syntax Practice Question

Which of the following is the correct way to define a function that takes no arguments and returns the value 42?

⚠ Common exam trap

The trap here is that option B looks almost correct but is missing the mandatory colon. Candidates may overlook the colon and incorrectly select B as well. Only D is valid.

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

✓

def f(): return 42

The syntax for defining a function in Python requires the def keyword, followed by the function name, parentheses (even if no arguments), a colon, and the indented body. Option B is missing the colon after the parentheses, making it syntactically incorrect.

Answer analysis

Option-by-option breakdown

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
Incorrect because it uses the keyword 'function' instead of 'def' and is missing the colon.
✗
def f() return 42
Why it's wrong here
Incorrect because it is missing the colon after the parentheses.
✗
def f: return 42
Why it's wrong here
Incorrect because it is missing the parentheses after the function name.
✓
def f(): return 42
Why this is correct
Correct because it uses `def`, parentheses, colon, and the return statement.

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PCEP Function definition syntax Practice Question

Why each option matters

Option-by-option breakdown

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