Lesson 48 of 55
9 mins readPython Modules, Packages & the require() System
In Plain English
A module in Lua is simply a table containing functions and constants that is returned at the end of a file: `return M`. Import modules using `local M = require("modname")`.
Deep Dive: How It Works
Module Pattern: Declare `local M = {}`, attach methods, and finish with `return M`.
require(modname): Searches paths in `package.path`, loads the file once, and caches it in `package.loaded`.
Encapsulation: Functions not attached to `M` remain private to the module file.
Core Rules to Remember
return M Convention: Every Lua module returns a table defining its public API.
package.loaded Caching: Subsequent calls to `require()` return the cached module table.
Live Interactive Example
Hit Run Code to see it liveDefining and Using a Module Table
Python 3.12
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Output Console
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How it works: MathUtils exposed square and clamp as public module functions.
Your Turn: Micro Challenge
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Micro Exercise
Define StringUtils Module
- Create `local StringUtils = {}`.
- Add `function StringUtils.quote(s) return """ .. s .. """ end`.
- Print `"Quoted: " .. StringUtils.quote("Lua")`.
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Sandbox Output
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