What is Python?
Python is a popular high-level language with a wide range of applications.
Thanks to the simplicity of writing code in Python and a massive community of developers, many beginners learn it as their first language.
But how do you learn Python as a beginner? Well, there are multiple ways you can go about it.
You could follow online tutorials, read the Python documentation, watch YouTube videos, join a bootcamp, or take an interactive Python course (and learn at your own pace).
We prefer interactive learning, and we will explain why in this blog. We will also discuss why you should learn Python as a beginner and how to learn it effectively.
So, continue reading if you want answers to these questions.
Why Python is a Good language for Beginners?
There are three main reasons why we recommend beginners to learn Python as their first language:
- Easy-to-use Syntax
- Wide Application
- Large Community
Easy-to-use Syntax
Python's syntax is super easy to understand.
Instead of using cryptic symbols like semi-colons, curly braces, and hashtags, Python uses simple English as keywords and focuses more on logic than syntax.
Let us see an example code to add two numbers in Java and Python:
As you can see from the image above, it takes one line of Python code to add two numbers while Java takes five.
The image shows how easy it is to write code in Python.
In addition, Python code is so intuitive that even a person with limited or no programming knowledge can figure out two things from it:
- Add two numbers, 20 and 30.
- Print the result to the screen.
Wide Range of Applications
Python has a wide range of applications in multiple fields. It is used everywhere, from data science to machine learning, web development to automation, and AI to web scraping.
But how is that helpful to beginners, right? Well, think of it like this
- Beginners will have a long list of career options to choose from after learning Python fundamentals.
- Since beginner coders are mostly confused, they can try out multiple fields after learning Python and make a career in the one that actually interests them.
- Python's wide application also makes it a fun language to learn. You can do various projects with Python, which will keep you interested in learning it.
Large Community
Python has a large community of programmers worldwide that you can connect with.
The online Python community is friendly and helpful so that you won't feel isolated even as a beginner. In addition, you can find answers to most of your programming queries on sites like Quora, Reddit, and StackOverflow.
So, don't forget to join online communities when you begin learning Python.
How to Learn Python?
Truth be told, it is not easy to learn to code. But it gets a bit easier while learning Python as it is a relatively easy language. Here are five things to remember while learning Python for the first time.
Learning by Doing
The best way to learn Python is by writing code yourself. You might think you understand certain concepts by reading or watching videos about them, but you'll be mistaken.
Many beginners get stuck in this vicious cycle of consuming tutorials but don't implement what they have learned. This situation is called "Tutorial Hell," which you must avoid.
Initially, you can code programs to take input and find the sum, difference, multiplication, simple interest, area and volume of different shapes, etc., as a part of your learning.
After these introductory programs, you can level up and start doing programs to print sequences, check conditions and perform string operations.
These programs will help you build logic; after you have mastered them, you can start building small-scale projects.
Have Patience and Code Everyday
Understanding that getting stuck is a part of the learning process is important for new learners. So don't panic when you can't run your code. Even veteran Python programmers working in multinational companies frequently get stuck.
Create Python Small Projects
As a beginner, you don't have to create massive projects. The goal of building projects is to implement your understanding of Python to solve problems.
You can start by building mini-projects like Tic-Tac-Toe and QR code generator once you are comfortable with Python.
Since you need to code many lines while building a project, you are bound to make mistakes, which means your debugging skills will improve.
Learn to search your query on Search Engines
Googling relevant information is an essential skill needed for programming. Even experienced programmers need to google syntax and concepts because no one can remember everything.
As a beginner, there are certain things you can do to improve your googling skills. Here are some tips you can use:
- Use the word 'define' before any search term to get its accurate definition
- Keep your search terms short and to the point. Instead of 'what are objects in python,' you can search for 'objects in python' and get a more accurate result.
- Use the 'People also Ask' section for additional information about the search term.
- Use the Quick Answer feature of google to get your answers fast.
Use Interactive Courses
There are many ways to learn code online, but we recommend interactive courses because they are the most efficient.
With an interactive course, you can learn at your own pace. Unlike bootcamps, you don't have to worry about time management.
Interactive courses also have short and precise lessons with clear concepts, and you get to build some cool projects towards the end.
Online tutorials don't have any tests and quizzes to keep you on your toes. But interactive courses like the Learn Python course from Programiz consist of lessons, quizzes, progress tracking, and coding challenges.
You also get a certificate at the end, motivating you to complete the course.
Common Python Questions
1. How long does it take to learn Python?
It depends on your goal. Learning Python for a job could take anywhere from 6 to 12 months.
But generally, you will get comfortable with Python in anywhere from 3 to 6 months with consistent practice.
2. Do you need to be good at Maths to learn to code?
No, you don't. While being good at maths does make you more logical, it is not necessary for coding. However, you do require basic arithmetic and algebra to learn to code.
Advanced mathematics like statistics and calculus is only needed when you want a career in data science, Video Game Engineering, AI, and Machine Learning.
3. Where to get help if you are stuck?
There are plenty of websites like Reddit, Quora, and StackOverflow where you can ask questions when you are stuck. These sites have a large community of like-minded people who will solve your queries. You can also find answers to questions similar to yours in these sites.
4. Can a beginner learn Python without any prior programming experience?
The simplicity of Python, along with its vast community of developers, makes it the perfect programming language for beginners. So, yes, a beginner can learn Python without prior programming knowledge.
But if you have prior programming knowledge, learning python definitely gets easier.
5. Which one should you learn, Python 2 or Python 3?
Python 2 is the older version of Python which was discontinued on January 2020. Unless you have specific reasons to use Python 2, it's best to learn Python 3.
6. Do you need to install software to run Python?
If your goal is to become a Python developer, installing an IDE like PyCharm or Visual Studio Code to run Python makes sense. However, if you are just starting with the language and don't want any hassle, we recommend you go with an online Python interpreter.
