What is Method and Difference between Functions and Methods in Javascript

Difference between Functions and Methods in Javascript

Before discussing the difference between a function and a method, we must understand, what is a function and what is a method. So, let’s understand a function first.

Function in Javascript

• A function in JavaScript is a block of code, which is designed to perform a particular task.
• It is a standalone piece of code that can be called from anywhere in the program.
• We need to use function keyword, in order to define a function.

function greet() {
  console.log("Hello, world!");
}

greet(); // Calls the function

So, we can say that

• functions can be declared independently.
• functions can be called without being associated with an object.
• functions are not tied to any object.

Now, Let’s see, what is a method

Methods in Javascript

• A method is also a function, but it is always associated with either an object or with a class.
• We have to write a method always inside an object or inside a class.
• When we write a method inside an object, then we need to use function keyword while defining it.
• When we write a method inside a class, then we can’t use function keyword while defining it.
• So, a method is a funnction which is a property of an object or a class.

Definition – When a function is defined as a property of an object or a class, it is called a method of that object or the class.

Methods associated to an object

const person = {

  name: "Rajesh",
  greet: function() {
    console.log("Hello, my name is " + this.name + "!");
  }
};

person.greet(); // Calls the method

Methods associated to a class

class person {

  name;
  greet() {
    console.log(`Hello, my name is ${this.name}`);
  }

}

let obj = new person();
obj.name = "Rajesh";
obj.greet();

Difference between function and method