In the context of OOP, what does encapsulation mean?

Encapsulation in the context of Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) refers to the bundling of data (attributes) and methods (functions or procedures) that operate on that data within a single unit, known as a class. This concept is fundamental to OOP because it allows for greater modularity and organization in software development. By keeping the data and the methods that manipulate that data together, encapsulation helps to restrict access to certain details and expose only what is necessary through an interface. This leads to a clearer structure, where the internal representation of an object is hidden from the outside, promoting data integrity and reducing the likelihood of unintended interference.

Other options, while related to programming concepts, do not accurately define encapsulation. For example, the separation of data and methods suggests a different approach, which contrasts with the principle of combining them. Enhancing algorithm efficiency pertains more closely to performance optimization rather than the structural organization of data and functionality. Similarly, creating abstract data types involves a broader concept of data representation but does not specifically define the act of encapsulation within the scope of OOP.