Python : helper function confusion
<p>For one of the functions of my assignment I am supposed to write a code for this recommendation score below. </p>

<p>But I have no idea where I should start off.  I was told to use helper functions but I dont know what kinda helper functions, like for instance their name </p>

<blockquote>
  <p>Recommendation score</p>
  
  <p>For each person, all people in the social network who they are not currently friends with are potential friends. For a particular person, each potential friend is scored using the following point system:</p>
  
  <ul>
  <li>for every mutual friend that the person and the potential friend have, add 1 point to the potential friend's score</li>
  <li>for each network that the person and the potential friend both belong to, add 1 point to the potential friend's score</li>
  <li>if the person has the same last name as a potential friend who was identified through one or both of the previous two methods, add 1 point to the potential friend's score</li>
  </ul>
</blockquote>

<p>The link to the assignment is at <a href="http://bit.ly/H9hCia" rel="nofollow">http://bit.ly/H9hCia</a>, if it makes it easier, its just based on this how would I start it. I was told by everyone that as long as I understand this description then I can start on it.But that doesn't seem like it, when you guys read it do u need more information? Because Im so confused so I  decided to post here and ask what you guys think.  Since I can't start on it at all. If I do need to further explain more I will. </p>
