In this blog post, we focus on functions in R through a series of multiple-choice questions (MCQs). Functions are one of the core building blocks of programming in R, allowing you to create reusable blocks of code that can perform specific tasks. Whether they are user-defined or predefined, functions help streamline your workflow and make your code more efficient.
The questions here cover key topics such as defining functions, returning values, argument handling, and scoping rules in R. You’ll also learn about function debugging, default values, and working with external scripts. Mastering these concepts will enable you to write better and more flexible code in R.
This quiz is designed to help you strengthen your understanding of how functions work in R. Whether you are new to R or improving your skills, these questions will guide you through the essentials of R functions. Let’s get started!
1. What is a user-defined function in R?
Answer:
Explanation:
A user-defined function in R refers to a function that is created by the user to perform specific tasks or calculations, as opposed to built-in functions that are provided by R.
2. Which keyword is used to define a function in R?
Answer:
Explanation:
In R, the keyword 'function' is used to define a new function.
3. How do you call a function named "myFunction" in R?
Answer:
Explanation:
Functions in R are called using their name followed by parentheses. Arguments, if any, are placed inside the parentheses.
4. Which of these is a correct way to define a function in R that takes no arguments?
Answer:
Explanation:
Functions in R are defined using the 'function' keyword, followed by parentheses. In this case, no arguments are specified inside the parentheses.
5. How can you return a value from a function in R?
Answer:
Explanation:
The return() function is used in R to return a value from a function.
6. What is the scope of a variable defined inside a function in R?
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Explanation:
Variables defined inside a function in R have local scope, meaning they are only accessible within the function.
7. What does the ellipsis (…) argument in a function definition signify in R?
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Explanation:
The ellipsis (…) is used in a function definition to indicate that the function can accept a variable number of arguments.
8. How are default values assigned to arguments in R functions?
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Explanation:
In R, default values for function arguments are assigned using the '=' operator within the function definition.
9. What is the result of using the next statement inside a loop within a function in R?
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Explanation:
The next statement in a loop within a function causes the loop to skip the rest of the current iteration and proceed to the next iteration.
10. How do you make a function parameter optional in R?
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Explanation:
In R, a function parameter is made optional by providing a default value in the function definition.
11. What does the debug() function do when applied to a function in R?
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Explanation:
The debug() function in R is used for debugging, allowing the user to step through the execution of the function one line at a time.
12. What is the purpose of the stopifnot() function in R?
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Explanation:
The stopifnot() function in R is used to assert that specified conditions are true; if any condition is false, an error is generated.
13. How can you source an external R script inside a function?
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Explanation:
The source() function in R is used to run all the commands contained in an external R script file.
14. What is the difference between library() and require() functions in R when loading a package?
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Explanation:
The library() function throws an error if the package is not available, whereas require() returns FALSE and gives a warning.
15. How do you document a function in R?
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Explanation:
In R, functions are often documented using Roxygen comments, which are special comments that can be used to generate documentation.