I've put together a small Python snippet to explain the 'why' behind using @property decorators for getters and setters.
Often, we reach for properties to add logic around attribute access. This snippet breaks down how @property enables:
- Centralized Validation: Ensure data integrity when attributes are set.
- Computed Attributes: Generate values on the fly based on other class data.
- Flexible Internal Data Management: Change how data is stored internally without impacting the code that uses your class.
Essentially, properties allow you to encapsulate attribute access logic. This makes your classes more robust and easier to maintain over time. Instead of direct attribute access, you use methods decorated as properties, which keeps your external interface clean while giving you control over the implementation.
This is for Python developers who want a clearer understanding of how and why to use properties in their object-oriented designs.
