What defines a class in object-oriented programming?

A class in object-oriented programming serves as a fundamental construct that encapsulates data and functionality together. When we refer to a class as a blueprint for creating objects, it highlights that the class defines the attributes (data) and behaviors (methods or functions) that those objects will possess. This encapsulation allows for the bundling of related properties and operations, facilitating a modular approach to coding.

The notion of the class encompassing a group of related methods and functions emphasizes that classes organize behavior logically and promote code reuse. This interconnectedness allows for clearer structuring of applications, making it easier to maintain and extend.

Moreover, the ability of a class to encapsulate data ensures that the internal state of an object can be protected from unwanted modifications from outside the class, adhering to the principles of encapsulation in object-oriented design. This means that access to the data can be controlled, typically through public methods known as accessors and mutators, further solidifying the role of classes as key components for building robust software systems.

Considering that a class indeed functions as a blueprint, groups related methods, and encapsulates data, all of these aspects come together to define what a class is in the context of object-oriented programming. This comprehensive understanding reiterates that the correct interpretation of