Python staticmethod() Function: Usage and Examples

Understand staticmethod() as the descriptor behind @staticmethod.

What You Will Learn

staticmethod(function) disables automatic binding of an instance or class as the first argument. The resulting helper can be called from the class or an instance without an implicit extra parameter.

Static methods have no automatic access to object or class state.

Step-by-Step Example

The example below makes the behavior visible with small input values that you can change safely.

class DistanceTools:
    def kilometers_to_miles(kilometers):
        return kilometers * 0.621371

    kilometers_to_miles = staticmethod(kilometers_to_miles)

print(round(DistanceTools.kilometers_to_miles(10), 2))

How the Example Works

The class DistanceTools groups data and behavior; its methods run when called on an instance.
The print() calls make the return values or state visible so you can compare them with the explanation and check your prediction.

For the chosen input, the expression round(DistanceTools.kilometers_to_miles(10), 2) prints 6.21. Compare that result with the rule above before you change the argument.

Expected output from the example:

6.21

When You Would Use This

These tools are useful when composing small reusable functions, adapting callbacks, or eliminating repeated work. Pay attention to whether the operation returns a new object, updates state, or produces lazy results. Test a small success case and a boundary case before integrating it into an application.

Practice: Modify the Code

Rewrite a small @staticmethod example with staticmethod(function).

Verify the changed output against the behavior described above, including the relevant invalid or boundary case.

For complete parameters and version details, consult the official Python documentation.

Common Beginner Mistakes

Accidentally defining an unused self parameter in a function wrapped by staticmethod.
Using staticmethod when an ordinary module-level function would be simpler.

Key Takeaways

Understand staticmethod() as the descriptor behind @staticmethod.
staticmethod(function) disables automatic binding of an instance or class as the first argument.
Static methods have no automatic access to object or class state.