Object-Oriented Python

Properties and Descriptors

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LearnStep 1 of 3

Managing Attributes Idiomatically

Learning Objectives

•Use the @property decorator for computed attributes and validation
•Implement setters and deleters using the property syntax
•Understand the descriptor protocol (__get__, __set__, __delete__)
•Create reusable validation logic using custom descriptors

Lesson Outline

LearnStep 1/3

Managing Attributes Idiomatically

In Python, direct attribute access is the norm. When you need to add validation or logic to getting/setting a value, you shouldn't switch to Java-style get_x()/set_x() methods, which would break client code. Instead, use properties and descriptors.

The @property Decorator

Use @property to define getters, setters, and deleters for an attribute while keeping the syntax obj.attr.

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The Descriptor Protocol

Descriptors are the mechanism behind properties, methods, and class methods. A descriptor is a class that implements __get__, __set__, or __delete__. They allow you to reuse logic (like type checking) across many attributes.

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