Python#

The VEX GO Python API Reference explains what each command, method, and function does, what inputs it uses, what it returns, and how it can be used in a project.

Use this reference when you want to understand a command before adding it to a project, check what values it accepts or returns, or compare related commands in a category.

Python commands are used in VEXcode GO Python projects. Blocks projects use the Blocks API section instead.

How to Read a Method Entry#

Most Python entries include the following parts:

  • Command name - The official name of the command, method, or function.

  • Description - Explains what the command does and when it is useful.

  • Usage - Shows the syntax used to write the command in code.

  • Parameters - Lists the inputs the command accepts and explains what each one does.

  • Return value - Explains what the command reports back, if it returns a value.

  • Example code - Shows one way the command can be used in a project.

Common Python API Elements#

Element

What it means

Method

A command called on an object such as drivetrain.drive(…).

Function

A command called directly, such as wait(…) or print(…).

Parameter

A value passed into a method or function to control what it does.

Optional parameter

A parameter that can be left out so the default behavior is used.

Return value

A value a command reports back, such as a number, text, or Boolean.

Basic Python Vocabulary#

Term

What it means

Variable

A name that stores a value, such as distance = 200.

String

Text inside quotes, such as “Hello”.

Integer

A positive or negative number, such as 90.

Float

A number with a decimal, such as 25.5.

Boolean

A value that is either True or False.

Argument

A value passed into a method or function call, such as FORWARD in drivetrain.drive(FORWARD).

Example Method Entry#

drive#

drive moves the robot forward or reverse forever. The robot will continue to move until it is given another action, like turning or stopping.

Usage:
drivetrain.drive(direction)

Parameters

Description

direction

The direction the robot moves: FORWARD or REVERSE.

# Build Used: Code Base 2.0
def main():
    # Drive forward then stop
    drivetrain.drive(FORWARD)
    wait(2, SECONDS)
    drivetrain.stop()

# Start threads - Do not delete
start_thread(main)