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The Wolfram Language:
Fast Introduction for Programmers

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Built-in Functions Video Version

The Wolfram Language has nearly 6,000 built-in functions. All have names in which each word starts with a capital letter:

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In[2]:= 2
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Notes for Java programmers:

The built-in functions in the Wolfram Language are integrated into the language and follow a single uniform design, rather than being in different libraries.

Notes for Python programmers:

The Wolfram Language follows a single consistent uniform design with completely integrated built-in functions, rather than loading functionality through disparate modules and libraries with differing designs and conventions.


Arguments to functions are always separated by commas.

Notes for Java programmers:

Function arguments in the Wolfram Language use square brackets [...] rather than parentheses (...). The Wolfram Language reserves parentheses for grouping, which avoids ambiguity.

Notes for Python programmers:

In the Wolfram Language, function arguments use square brackets [...] rather than parentheses (...). Parentheses are reserved for grouping.


Hover over any built-in function name to see a summary or documentation and examples...


Typical built-in functions:

Complete guide:

Notes for Java programmers:

The Wolfram Language has vastly wider built-in functionality than Java.

Notes for Python programmers:

The Wolfram Language encompasses a wider breadth and depth of built-in functionality than Python—including features like ExternalEvaluate to integrate Python code—which makes it easier and faster to write code. You can access built-in Wolfram Language functions and symbols directly from Python by using language.wl from the Wolfram Client Library for Python.

QUICK REFERENCE: Guide to All Built-in Functions


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