Difference Between self and __init__ Methods in Python Class

self

The word 'self' is used to represent the instance of a class. By using the "self" keyword we access the attributes and methods of the class in python.

__init__ method

"__init__" is a reseved method in python classes. It is called as a constructor in object oriented terminology. This method is called when an object is created from a class and it allows the class to initialize the attributes of the class.

Example

Find out the cost of a rectangular field with breadth(b=120), length(l=160). It costs x (2000) rupees per 1 square unit

class Rectangle:
   def __init__(self, length, breadth, unit_cost=0):
       self.length = length
       self.breadth = breadth
       self.unit_cost = unit_cost
   def get_area(self):
       return self.length * self.breadth
   def calculate_cost(self):
       area = self.get_area()
       return area * self.unit_cost
# breadth = 120 units, length = 160 units, 1 sq unit cost = Rs 2000
r = Rectangle(160, 120, 2000)
print("Area of Rectangle: %s sq units" % (r.get_area()))

Output

This gives the output

Area of Rectangle: 19200 sq units
Cost of rectangular field: Rs.38400000