Python

Classes

Static Methods can be called without initializing the class. It does not have access to the instance or the class. It is basically a regular python function that is under the class for organizational purpose.

Class methods have access to the class, but not the instance. They can instantiate the class.

Important Note - pass by reference

If you have

def foo(x: torch.Tensor): x = x + 1

Even though tensors are pass-by-reference, x is not modified outside of the scope of this function. It is ilik

On the other hand, if you did

def foo(x: torch.Tensor): x.add_(1)

The change is seen outside the function Last Reviewed: 4/26/25