New to Python? Here Are Some Tips For Learning Python Programming

Overview

Start with the Basics

Learn the syntax, data types, and basic structures of the language, such as variables, loops, and functions. The official Python Tutorial is a good way to start. Putting the learning in context through projects is a great way to see its relevance and maintain motivation. Don’t worry about memorising everything but be familiar with them by reading through them for a week or two.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Coding can be like muscle memory, so getting into the work is key to becoming fluent. LearnPython.org is a website that offers interactive tutorials on Python, allowing you to practice what you learn in your browser. Start with simple programs and gradually build up to more complex projects. This will help you gain confidence and a deeper understanding of how the language works. Do this everyday, and you’ll soon be granted familiarity.

Learn by Example

Look at examples of Python code, whether it’s in tutorials, sample programs, or open-source projects, to see how the language is used in real applications. You can copy and archive some of your favourite bits for reference if you wish.

Use Interactive Environment

One of Python’s strengths is its ability to render results immediately and even test without affecting the main codes. Use IDLE or Jupyter Notebook to experiment with code and see the results instantly.

Build Something, Anything

Once you have a basic understanding of the language, try giving yourself a goal and build your projects, whether it’s a simple script or a more complex application. This will help you apply what you’ve learned and the joy of seeing them work will spur you on. It could be a location-based mobile game or an algorithm to predict the weather. Try pair programming, where two persons set a task and collaborate on it together at a sitting. One person codes while the other observes and guides, before switching roles after a while. Otherwise, Automate the Boring Stuff with Python is a free online book that teaches Python programming through practical projects such as web scraping, data visualisation, and Excel automation.

Build Something, Anything

Once you have a basic understanding of the language, try giving yourself a goal and build your projects, whether it’s a simple script or a more complex application. This will help you apply what you’ve learned and the joy of seeing them work will spur you on. It could be a location-based mobile game or an algorithm to predict the weather. Try pair programming, where two persons set a task and collaborate on it together at a sitting. One person codes while the other observes and guides, before switching roles after a while. Otherwise, Automate the Boring Stuff with Python is a free online book that teaches Python programming through practical projects such as web scraping, data visualisation, and Excel automation.

Build Upon The Libraries & Frameworks

Another benefit of Python is that it has a rich ecosystem of libraries and frameworks that can help you accomplish a wide variety of tasks. Learn the most popular libraries and frameworks, such as NumPy, pandas, matplotlib, scikit-learn, Flask, Django, and achieve many seemingly advanced tasks in half the time.

Get Help When You Need It

If you get stuck while debugging, don’t waste too much time on it and ask for help. Many resources such as documentation, forums, and Stack Overflow, can help you find answers to your questions.

Have Fun

Learning a new programming language can be challenging, but the reward of seeing your first project function will be fulfilling. For beginners, Python programming is one of the easiest ways to get into the world of coding. Enjoy the process with small, fun projects, and let the community and the libraries support you. With a bit of time, patience and practice, you will quickly become proficient in Python.

Receive guidance in your journey with Python at Heicoders Academy.