**Abstraction** is one of the fundamental concepts of OOP in Python. From a human perspective, all classes in code are abstract (we can't touch them). However, machines can operate with them. Nevertheless, it is possible to create an abstraction even for machines, making the class abstract for them as well.

In Python, an abstract class is a class that cannot be instantiated directly and is meant to serve as a blueprint for other classes. It provides a common interface or set of methods that derived classes are expected to implement.

from abc import ABC, abstractmethod

class SomeClass(ABC):
    @abstractmethod
    def something():
        print("Something")

class NewClass(SomeClass):
    attribute = "Something"
    def something(self):
        print(self.attribute, "is the NewClass attribute")

new_class = NewClass()  # created
new_class.something()

instance = SomeClass()  # raised an error

The provided example demonstrates the creation of an abstract class called `SomeClass`, which serves as a blueprint for the derived class `NewClass`. An abstract class acts exclusively as a blueprint for its derived classes and cannot be directly instantiated.

In subsequent chapters, we will explore the `ABC` class, the `@abstractmethod` decorators, and delve into the structure and details of abstract classes.

This course covers Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) in Python, starting with the basics and progressing to advanced concepts. You will implement a User model to gain practical experience and understanding of OOP features. By the end of the course, you will have a strong foundation in OOP and a deeper knowledge of Python's inner workings.

Let's start! The Object-Oriented Programming basic concepts are waiting for you here! In this section, you will get acquainted with the most important concepts for understanding Object-Oriented Programming.

Inheritance - the first of the OOP principles. The entities can be inherited from other ones. You learn how it works in code here.

Inheritance - the second of the OOP principles. The attributes and methods can be closed inside the class and used by the class only. Here you learn how to code with different access modifiers.

Polymorphism and abstraction are the third and fourth of the OOP principles. These principles are not easy to understand. Here you will get to know them in the simplest ways.

The magic methods make sandbox from Python. It's a unique Python tool you can't see in other languages. Here you learn how to use these methods and about the flexibility that they bring to Python.

In-Depth Python OOP

What is Abstraction?