Beginning Python for Non-Programmers
  • Cover
  • About the Author
  • Introduction to Programming
    • What is Programming?
    • What Programmers Do
    • The Mind of a Programmer
    • How Does a Programmer Think?
  • Programming Languages
    • Python
    • HTML / CSS
    • JavaScript / TypeScript
    • C, C++, C#
    • Java
    • SQL
  • Introduction to Python
    • What is Python?
    • Types of Python Programs
    • Core Tools for Python Programming
      • Python Interpreter
      • Jupyter Notebooks
      • Visual Studio Code
      • Python Playground
      • Pycharm Community Edition
  • Installing Python
    • Step-by-step guide for Windows Users
    • Step-by-step guide for Mac Users
  • Installing Visual Studio Code
    • Step-by-step guide for Windows Users
    • Step-by-step guide for Mac Users
  • Writing and Running Your First Python Program
  • Basic Concepts of Python Programming
  • Control Flow in Python
  • Functions and Reusability
  • Debugging and Problem Solving
  • Exploring More Python Concepts
  • Adding Python Packages with pip
  • Python Web Frameworks
  • Resources for Continued Learning
    • CodeAcademy.com
    • Python.org
    • SoloLearn.com
    • coursera.com
    • udemy.com
    • youtube.com
    • Code With Mosh
    • GameDev.tv
  • Staying Motivated and Practicing Regularly
  • Appendices
    • Beginner Project Ideas for Learning
    • Python Cheat Sheet
    • Frequently Asked Questions for Beginners
Powered by GitBook
On this page

Was this helpful?

Edit on GitHub
  1. Introduction to Python

What is Python?

Python is a programming language that is widely recognized for being simple, easy to learn, and powerful. It was created in the late 1980s by Guido van Rossum, with the goal of making programming more accessible to everyone. Today, Python is one of the most popular languages in the world, used by beginners and experts alike. Its clean and readable syntax allows new programmers to focus on learning core concepts without getting overwhelmed by complex rules.

One of the main reasons Python is great for beginners is its versatility. Whether you want to build a website, analyze data, create games, or even control robots, Python can do it all. It’s a general-purpose language, meaning it’s not limited to one specific area. Python is used in various fields, from web development and data science to machine learning and artificial intelligence. Some of the most famous tech companies, like Google, Instagram, and Netflix, use Python for parts of their systems.

Python’s biggest strength is its simplicity. Its syntax is designed to be similar to plain English, making it easier to understand what’s happening in the code. For example, to display a message on the screen, you simply write: print("Hello, World!"). This approach lowers the barrier to entry, allowing beginners to focus on learning the fundamentals of programming without getting bogged down by complicated syntax.

Despite its simplicity, Python is also incredibly powerful. It has a large ecosystem of libraries and tools that make it capable of handling just about any programming task. As you become more experienced, you’ll find that Python has the flexibility to grow with you. Whether you’re just starting out or developing complex projects, Python provides an excellent foundation for your journey into programming.

Some content generated with AI

PreviousIntroduction to PythonNextTypes of Python Programs

Last updated 9 months ago

Was this helpful?