Understanding the difference between methods and functions in JavaScript is important for writing better code. While both perform tasks, functions are independent, while methods belong to objects. Knowing when to use each helps you write cleaner and more efficient JavaScript programs.

JavaScript Functions

A function is a block of code written to perform some specific set of tasks. We can define a function using the function keyword, followed by Name and optional parameters. The body of the function is enclosed in curly braces.

Syntax:

function functionName(parameters) {
    // Content
}

Work Around:

• The function is executed when something calls/invokes it.
• The name may contain letters, digits, dollar signs, and underscores.
• Parameters are listed inside round parenthesis after the name of the function.
• Arguments are values a function receives when it is invoked.
• When the control reaches the return statement, JavaScript stops executing and the value is returned to the caller.

Example:

Below is the function to add two numbers.

function func(a, b) {
    let sum = a + b;
    return sum;
}
console.log(func(1, 2));

Output:

3

JavaScript Methods

A JavaScript Method is a property of an object that contains a function definition. Methods are functions stored as object properties. An object method can be accessed with the following syntax:

Syntax:

object = {
    methodName: function() {
        // Content
    }
};
object.methodName()

Work Around:

• Actions that can be performed on objects are called JavaScript methods.
• The objects can also be called without using parentheses.
• this refers to the owner object in a method.

Example:

The following example shows a method that is invoked with an object called employee.

let employee = {
    empname: "Rahul",
    department: "sales",
    details: function () {
        return this.empname +
            " works with Department " +
            this.department;
    }
};
console.log(employee.details());

Output:

Rahul works with Department sales

Difference Between Function and Method