Python tutorial - Introduction to Python
What is Python?
Python is a general-purpose programming language, created by Guido van Rossum in the year 1991, and ever since it has become one of the most widely used languages along with Java, PHP, etc. It’s a high-level programming language that includes built-in data structure and combined with dynamic typing which makes it a more preferable language for fast application development or to connect the existing elements in a script.
Python is very simple, easy-to-learn, and supports multiple programming paradigms including the Object-oriented, functional, imperative, procedural just to name a few. Programmers often fall in love with this language for the enhanced productivity it provides. Some of its special features include an automatic memory system and dynamic type system which makes this language uncomplicated and more readable.
What is Python used for?
1. WEB DEVELOPMENT AND BUILDING APPS
Whenever you ask someone-“What programming language should I learn?” The most common answer would be Python. Because it is very easy to learn and is one of the simplest languages we have right now. It allows you to use English keywords instead of some punctuation, it’s readable and the clean code base will enhance your productivity.
The built-in libraries and web frameworks such as Django, Flask and Pyramid, will make the perfect backend for web developments and application projects, by allowing you to write a little number of codes thus shortening the time you spend on your projects
2. ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
Artificial Intelligence is the intelligence displayed by machines. It is one of the latest technologies that have built a craze among tech geeks. When it comes to AI, Python is the most suited language for it. Hence, has taken the big lead into this world of Artificial Intelligence.
Python has some special frameworks, libraries, and tools dedicated to building an AI that can replace human efforts. One major benefit of this programming language is that it doesn’t need to be compiled into machine language instruction before execution and allows the programmer to run the program directly. Python is available for all operating systems and is an open-source titled CPython. Hence, it is the most preferred language for creating powerful AI.
3. GAME DEVELOPMENT
If you have an existing game or want to add a scripting engine for more flexibility then Python will prove to be the best choice. Python and Pygame framework offers rapid game prototyping which is beginner-friendly and comes with a wide range of Python Game libraries that you can use to create some stunning and powerful games.
4. DATA SCIENCE
Python is also used in Data science and scientific research and also has several science-specific libraries such as:
• Graph-tool for statistical analysis of graphs
• Biopython for biology
• Psychopy for neuroscience
• Astropy for astronomy
And many more. Its simplicity and robust capabilities make it an outstanding language choice for researchers and analysts. To know more check out the list of Python’s scientific libraries.
5. FINANCIAL INDUSTRY
According to a survey released by HackerRank in 2016, the biggest industries such as HIS Markit, Morgan Stanley are hiring developers who are expert in Python language. Python was one of the top three most popular languages in the financial sector and when it came to FinTech, Python dominated the list.
It’s not just the FinTech companies; Python is used all over the financial industry. Some of the major companies that use python are Robinhood, Stripe, and Zopa.
Why YOU should learn Python?
1. The abundance of Python Jobs
Certainly, there is a high demand for Python developers in various major companies and startups. It offers the most promising career opportunities as well. Python ensures the more concise codes that deliver better designs. It has faster readability and it is one of the best tools for creating dynamic scripts on large and small scales.
Python is a versatile programming language that can be used in several areas including testing, app development, game developments, scriptwriting etc. You can get a job related to this language based on the skill you own. The most popular Python jobs are:
• Machine Learning Engineer
• Python developer
• DevOps engineer
• Data Analyst
• Software Tester
• Product manager
2. Python is the fastest-growing programming language
When we look at the wide range of applications of Python in various industries, it’s no wonder that Python is the fastest-growing programming language in the market right now.
With online learning platforms like Udemy and Coursera that offers free coding classes, it’s easier now to track the number of people willing to learn python online. Codeacademy saw major growth in users studying python. Even StackOverflow determined Python to be the fastest-growing programming language by analyzing the number of visitors to certain questions or topics.
3. Startups love python
Startups planning a product development process need to look for a suitable and fast programming language for building their products whether it be a website or mobile app. This is where python comes in as an efficient and budget-friendly option for such projects.
Startups love Python because it’s very easy to use which means less development time and a streamlined debugging process. It requires less maintenance hence saves you a lot of time. So, startups are a great place to land your first job and work in a real-time environment while gaining industry experience.
4. Python developers make a good amount of money
The demand for python developers is growing at a lightning speed and today python developers are one of the highest-paid developers in the market, specifically in the field of web development, machine learning, and data science.
On average, A Python developer earns around $119,082 per year in the US. Considering previous year's salaries, we can find that it’s consistently standing as the 2nd highest paying language after Ruby and on its way to being on the top of the list.
5. Python is very easy to learn
So far python is the most versatile and powerful language in the industry right now. For the most amazing features it provides at very minimal code, you might think that it will take years to learn Python. Not so! Industry professionals say that you can learn the basics of python such as syntax, keywords, and data types in as little as 5-6 weeks if you have some previous coding experience.
6. Python has a huge and supportive community
Python is an open-source coding language, which means it’s completely free to use and anyone can create extensions or modify the language as per their needs and also publish their works publicly. Bring an open-source language, Python consists of chunks of libraries, frameworks, and tools that keep python adaptable over time and keep up with the trend.
Python also has a community page where you can find some advice, and inspiration from fellow python enthusiasts and experts. So, what are you waiting for? There is at least one more room for a Python Enthusiast!
7. Python is versatile
Being an open-source language, Python does a lot. This is why great tech companies such as Google, Instagram, and Facebook use the python programming language to create some awesome features. And here Python versatility means that a developer will have a wide array of work options. Whether you want to work for a big tech company or want to build a small scale software programs or work as a full-stack web developer. Python is the Go for all of these!
8. Python is compatible with both front and back ends
You can make a successful career as a front end developer, but a website has more to it than just front end design. A website also consists of a back end that is made of web servers and databases to power up the website and apps and make it alive.
Python foundation refers to Python as “Glue language” that can be used to script the back-end actions, allowing the front and back end to work together perfectly. So, if you’re thinking of learning a server-side language for your front-end projects and move closer to becoming a full-stack developer then Python is the best one to get started.
How to learn Python?
Now if you’re ready to learn Python then let me introduce you to some of the great online resources that will teach you the basics of this language for absolutely FREE!!
1. Codeacademy
Codeacademy is an online learning platform that focuses constantly on improving the learning experience for people who want to learn to code for FREE. It offers a beginner-friendly Python course that is a good kick-start for beginners. Although it’s short and not that comprehensive, it will surely get you from zero to 5%. It’s a good foundation course for absolute beginners.
2. Instructronics
Instructronics is an emerging online learning platform that is dedicated to educating people with Programming tutorials for FREE of cost. It offers free tutorials on Python language that are written for absolute beginners. It also offers a free code editor for practicing the code and nourishing your skills. Anyone who is learning python through a course must refer to this blog alongside for better comprehension and understanding.
3. Google’s Python class
Many students across the globe often get confused while choosing the right online platform to learn programming languages. But worry not! Google is here for you.
Google's Python class offers an excellent crash course in the basics of Python. It focuses mostly on theoretical concepts rather than practical applications. This course also includes many videos and materials that are available for free online. This is a very good class for beginners with less or no prior coding experience.
4. Coursera
Coursera offers a course called “Python for everybody” which is a highly recommended course that starts from basics and introduces you to every concept of python thoroughly. It is available for free or you can pay to get a completion certificate. It offers videos in English, Russian, Spanish, Chinese, and French. You can also see the subtitles below the videos if required.
Some key topics of this course are:
• Introduction to basics
• Advanced concepts
• Control statements and Functions
5. Tutorials Point
Tutorials Point provides one of the best online tutorial contents on Learning the Python Programming Language. It is beginner-friendly and introduces you to many python concepts. Apart from basic Python they also cover some advanced Python concepts such as database access, game programming, CGI, networking, and many more.
It has tutorial content from beginner to expert level. It is the best platform to nourish your coding skills and become experts in the industry.