After much thought, my brain came up with an answer of 42

Good to know this method exists!

Awesome!

exactly. python has a doc for a reason. don't reinvent the wheel

not neccessarily. python documentation is there for a reason. built in functions are there specifically so you don't have to do the work that's already been done. look up black box and abstractions

it happens

damn, you really changed it up there

yes

sorry. python docs, all knowing

If they wanted us not to use built-in functions:

1. they would've written tests to prevent that
2. the kata most likely wouldn't be 8 kyu, as most 8 kyu katas take <10 seconds to solve and just want you to do one basic operation

same LOL I totally forgot that these existed trying to be mr. big brain 8 kyu XD

Clever

Whoop. Genius

For me 8 kyu kata is exactly about using built in function. In description there is not limitations about it.

Don't. The point of this kata was exactly to use if statements and not built in finctions.
Wait, are you joking?