PCPP1 Advanced Object Oriented Programming Practice Question
What is the primary difference between @classmethod and @staticmethod?
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
✓
@classmethod receives the class as the first argument; @staticmethod does not.
@classmethod receives the class as the first argument, while @staticmethod receives no implicit class or instance argument.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
@staticmethod can access instance variables.
Why it's wrong here
Neither can access instance variables directly.
- ✓
@classmethod receives the class as the first argument; @staticmethod does not.
Why this is correct
This is the fundamental distinction.
- ✗
@classmethod is for private methods.
Why it's wrong here
Both can be used for public or private methods.
- ✗
@classmethod is slower.
Why it's wrong here
Performance difference is negligible.
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Last reviewed August 2026 · checked against the official Python Institute exam blueprint
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