In Python, methods are functions that are associated with objects and are integral to the language’s object-oriented programming paradigm. They allow developers to perform operations on data contained within objects, enhancing code efficiency and readability. Python provides a variety of built-in methods for different data types, such as strings, lists, and dictionaries, enabling seamless data manipulation. For instance, string methods like .upper() and list methods like .append() simplify complex tasks with minimal code. Understanding and utilizing methods is essential for writing effective Python code and leveraging the full power of the language in various applications.