Python is a language developed by Guido van Rossum in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Originally designed to speed up and simplify the work of programmers, Python has become widely recognized and immensely popular due to its user-friendliness, simplicity, and active developer community support.
Despite its simplicity, Python continues to evolve and improve, remaining one of the most popular programming languages in the world. Its versatility makes it attractive for both beginners and experienced developers alike.
As interest in artificial intelligence, data analysis, and machine learning grows, Python has taken a prominent role in future technologies. Its prospects remain promising, and it is expected to continue topping the list of popular programming languages in the future.
Python is applied in various fields and domains, but most commonly in the following:
- Web Development: Creating web applications and websites using frameworks such as Django and Flask.
- Data Analysis and Scientific Research: Processing and visualizing information, as well as conducting scientific calculations.
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: Developing and implementing machine learning and AI algorithms.
- Task Automation: Python provides convenient tools for automation, saving time and effort.
- Game Development: Prototyping and developing gaming applications.
- Graphic Design and Image Processing: Automating image processing and analysis tasks.
- Robotics: Programming robots and automating their control.
Distinguishing Python from Other Programming Languages (PL)
- Python is renowned for its understandable syntax. The language itself is clean and concise, making it easy for beginners to learn and use Python.
- Python boasts an active and supportive developer community, providing extensive documentation, libraries, modules, and solutions for various tasks.
- This programming language is designed to be written line-by-line, simplifying debugging and development processes.
- Python supports various operating systems and platforms, making it a portable and flexible language.
- The language comes with a set of standard libraries, along with numerous third-party libraries and modules, streamlining the execution of diverse tasks without the need to write code from scratch.
- Python provides dynamic typing, which means variables can change their data type during program execution.
- Python is an open and free language, allowing users to utilize, modify, and distribute it freely.
Where to Start Learning Python
Beginning Python programming involves learning its fundamental concepts and syntax. Familiarize yourself with data types, variables, conditional statements, loops, and functions. Utilize interactive programming environments like Jupyter Notebook or Python's interactive mode (via the command line or built-in interpreter). This will allow you to practice and see results immediately. Next, delve into examples and problem-solving: immerse yourself in code samples available in Python documentation and online resources. Gradually move on to solving simple tasks to reinforce your knowledge and enhance your understanding of the language.
Practice
Start writing your own programs and projects. Apply the concepts you've learned in practice and develop your programming skills. Familiarize yourself with various Python libraries and frameworks for beginners; they expand the language's functionality and simplify your initial development. For example, explore libraries for data analysis (NumPy, Pandas), web development (Django, Flask), artificial intelligence (TensorFlow, PyTorch), and more.
Join the Community!
Engage with the Python community through forums, social media groups, or meetups. Interacting with experienced developers and exchanging knowledge can be incredibly valuable. Don't be afraid to start with simple tasks and gradually progress to more challenging ones. Practice and patience will help you master Python and become a skilled developer.
Of course, to work with this language, you need to prepare your platform and install Python on your computer. Follow these simple steps:
- Go to the official Python website.
- On the main page, navigate to the "Downloads" section and select the version of the language you want to download. We recommend choosing the latest stable version, as it is the most up-to-date.
- Download the installation file for your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux).
- Run the installation file. You may need to grant permissions or confirm administrative rights to proceed with the installation.
- Follow the instructions provided by the Python installer. The installation process is typically straightforward and does not require any specific configurations. By default, Python will be installed in the "Program Files" directory on Windows or "/usr/local/bin" on macOS and Linux.
- After the installation is complete, open the command prompt (in Windows - "Command Prompt", in macOS and Linux - "Terminal") and type the command "python --version" (without quotes). If Python is successfully installed, you will see the version of Python that you selected during the installation.
- Now Python is successfully installed on your computer, and you are ready not only to learn the basics of programming in Python but also to program in this powerful and versatile language!
Free Platforms Teaching Python Basics for Beginners
- Codecademy: Codecademy's Python course offers an interactive learning experience, guiding you through Python syntax, data types, and control flow with practical examples.
- Coursera: Coursera hosts Python courses from reputable universities, allowing you to learn from expert instructors and engage with a supportive community.
- edX: edX offers various Python courses, including those from renowned institutions like MIT and Harvard, with options for both beginners and advanced learners.
- SoloLearn: SoloLearn is a mobile app that provides bite-sized Python lessons, quizzes, and challenges, making learning convenient on the go.
- Real Python: Real Python's website offers a collection of free tutorials and articles for Python learners, covering topics from basic concepts to advanced techniques.
Useful Materials about Python from Serverspace
Be sure to explore our articles on topics like "First Python Program" and "How to write a module in Python 3", as well as the Python section in our Knowledge Base.