Learning Python can seem daunting at first, but with the right approach and resources, anyone can master this versatile programming language. Here is a comprehensive guide to learning Python for beginners.
The first question that comes to mind is;
How to learn Python?
Learning Python is pretty easy if you take it step-by-step. Start by getting an introductory Python textbook or following an online course to learn the basics of syntax, data structures, and flow control.
Play around in a Python shell to get comfortable with writing code. Try some simple programming exercises and mini-projects to practice the concepts. Look stuff up online when you get stuck! StackOverflow will become your best friend.
Let’s get to the details.
Choose a Learning Style
First, think about how you learn best. If you prefer structure, an online course with built-in assessments may suit you. Options like Codecademy and DataCamp offer interactive courses with hands-on coding projects. If you’re self-driven, tutorials like Python.org’s docs or YouTube channels can work. Textbooks like “Automate the Boring Stuff” and “Python Crash Course” are great for learning fundamentals, too.
Start With Python Basics
Focus on core concepts like:
- Variables and data types
- Operators
- Conditional statements
- Loops
- Functions
- Classes and objects
Mastering the building blocks will provide a solid foundation before advancing- an experiment in shells like IDLE to cement knowledge.
Apply Skills With Mini-Projects
After the basics, do mini-projects that get you coding. Recreate simple programs you use daily or build a primary game. Coding games like Blackjack or Hangman reinforce skills that are simple enough. Completing projects, even small ones, boosts confidence and abilities.
Learn Popular Python Libraries
Expand beyond core Python by learning popular libraries like:
- Pandas for data analysis
- NumPy for scientific computing
- Django or Flask for web development
- Matplotlib for data visualization
These tools augment Python’s versatility. Learn the basics of a few libraries aligned with your interests.
Troubleshoot Issues By Using Resources
Debugging code is part of programming. Don’t get frustrated! Use online resources like Stack Overflow to troubleshoot errors as they arise. Learning how to find answers is critical. Read the documentation, search Google, and leverage the Python community.
Continue Practicing and Building Projects
Mastering Python takes regular, sustained practice. Set aside dedicated time to code daily. Maintain momentum by building projects that interest you. Implement data pipelines, develop web apps, or train machine learning models. The more you code, the faster you’ll progress. Be patient with yourself, and keep at it!
I would like to point out a few points before I move on to the next question.
With new programming languages constantly emerging, there is frequent debate over which one is the “best” to learn. For versatility, community, and income potential, Python and JavaScript consistently rank among the top choices when discussing “Best Programming language.”
When deciding which programming language to start with as a beginner, two of the most common options are Python and JavaScript. Both have their merits, so weighing the pros and cons of “Should I learn Python or JavaScript?” can help determine which one to learn first.
How Long Does It Take to Learn Python?
The time it takes to learn Python can vary greatly depending on your prior programming experience and how you approach learning. Here’s a breakdown of the typical timeline:
Learning the Basics
For beginners with no previous coding experience, expect to spend around 4-8 weeks learning core Python concepts like:
- Syntax rules
- Variables and data types
- Operators
- Control flow
- Functions
- Classes and objects
- Handling exceptions
With consistent practice, complete beginners can learn fundamental Python in 1-2 months through books, online courses, or coding boot camps.
Gaining Intermediate Proficiency
After getting the basics down, expect to spend 3-6 months reaching an intermediate skill level. The following are included:
- Learning widely used Python libraries like NumPy, Pandas, Matplotlib
- Creating more complex programs by combining Python features
- Building real-world projects for your portfolio
- Understanding how to write clean, efficient code
- Deploying web apps, data visualizations, or other productions
With disciplined studying and project-building, intermediate skills can be achieved in 6-12 months.
Reaching Advanced Level
It takes 6-18 months of intensive coding to master advanced Python like:
- Optimizing performance and efficiency
- Building and consuming APIs
- Using multiprocessing and multithreading
- Leveraging testing frameworks like PyTest
- Contributing to or creating Python open-source libraries
- Understanding the internals of Python architecture
Dedicated learners can reach an advanced level in 1-2 years of consistent Python usage.
Maintaining Continuous Learning
Seasoned programmers always continue learning! Continuously expand skills by:
- Learning new Python libraries and frameworks
- Reading updated documentation and best practices
- Absorbing new Python features with each release
- Building larger-scale or highly complex Python projects
- Contributing to open-source Python projects
With a growth mindset, developers continue advancing their Python skills over a lifetime.
The key is being patient, practicing regularly, and applying Python to build projects.
With commitment, beginners can learn Python fundamentals in a few months. Intermediate skills can be attained in 6-12 months. Mastering Python to an advanced level takes 1-2 years for most learners. And with regular usage, Python skills continue improving over a career. Consistent learning is vital to Python mastery.
The best course to learn Python:
1. Programming for Everybody: Getting Started with Python:
The course is an easygoing introductory course in Python and computer programming. It belongs to the University of Michigan’s Python for Everybody Specialization, which includes data structures, web development & data analysis. The course is freely auditable and has a very forgiving schedule. As part of the curriculum, this is also covered. A certificate can also be purchased for a fee.
2. The Complete Python Course: Learn Python by Doing:
It is an all-rounded and practical course that teaches you how to use Python in different ways, including web scraping, data analysis, website building, and so on. With more than thirty projects and exercises, it is a tool whereby you can refine your skills as well as add to your portfolio. There is a course that one can access at Udemy at $19.99.
3. Computer Science for Python Programming Professional Certificate:
There is also a professional certificate program involving basic computer science principles and Python programming. Software developers, data scientists, and machine learners will benefit from this program. The course is conducted in four parts, with an additional capstone project that takes approximately six months. You can buy it on EdX for $396.
4. 100 Days of Code: The Complete Python Pro Bootcamp:
It is a very intense and active training that lasts 100 days, but you will write code each day on Python. It includes topics on data structures and algorithms, object-oriented programming, web development, etc. It also has suggestions for improving code-writing practice and enhancing the coder’s skills. One can purchase this course on Udemy at the price of $19 and ninety-nine cents.
5. Introduction to Python Programming Professional Certificate:
The course is a professional certificate program that focuses on introducing basic knowledge about Python programming and its use. Suitable for students starting with Python or those on an intermediate level. Approximately four months are required to complete courses I, II, and III, as well as a final project. EdX offers it for $267.
6. Automate the Boring Stuff with Python Programming:
You’ll learn how to automate various tasks with Python, such as scraping the web, managing files, manipulating data, and more, in this fun and creative course. On Udemy, you can purchase the system for $19.99. It consists of video lectures, quizzes, and projects based on the popular book by Al Sweigart.
A word of caution:
Once you start gaining skills as a developer, exploring ways to monetize those skills becomes necessary for turning coding into a career. Some popular options are developing apps, selling code libraries, freelancing, and working as a full-time programmer when considering “How to make money as a programmer?
Free online courses for learning Python
- An Introduction to Interactive Programming in Python
- Scientific Computing with Python
- Crash Course on Python
- Learn Python – Free Interactive Python Tutorial
- Introduction To Python Programming
Wrapp-up:
Learning Python opens up a world of possibilities for becoming a programmer and launching a coding career. With the right approach, tools, and commitment, anyone can go from beginner to Python expert. Starting by building a solid foundation in programming fundamentals is crucial.
Following a comprehensive, hands-on Python course is one of the best ways to learn Python for most learners. Courses like Codecademy, DataCamp, and Udemy offer structured learning with interactive exercises, projects, and community support.
Complementing approaches with other resources like documentation, books, and coding challenges will help skill mastery. The key is finding a learning style that fits your needs and staying motivated through consistent, creative practice. With patience and perseverance, you’ll be on your way to Python expertise and becoming a programmer in no time.