Getting started with programming in Python

Programming is the process of creating a set of instructions that a computer can understand and execute to perform specific tasks. These instructions, known as code, are written using programming languages such as Python. In the beginning, programming can feel overwhelming especially when you are new, but with the right approach and motivation, it becomes an exciting and rewarding journey. The purpose of learning programming can vary depending on profession, interests, and long-term goals.

An introduction to the Python language

Python’s creator Guido van Rossum, a Dutch programmer started it in 1989 with the philosophy of simplicity and readability. Python gained popularity due to its object-oriented nature, concurrency, platform independence, and security features, making it stand out in the market without notable competition for many years until its recent rise. Python is one of the best programming languages to learn, especially for beginners, due to its simplicity, versatility, and widespread applications. It has a clean and intuitive syntax that reads almost like English. Unlike other programming languages like C++ or Java, Python is more focused on foundational programming concepts rather than complicated syntax (Guido Van Rossum: The Early Years of Python, 2015).

It is increasingly being used as a foundation in diverse fields like data science, web development, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), automation, and more. Python also has a robust learning ecosystem that includes:

• Free online tutorials and courses
• Massive community support
• Comprehensive documentation
• Numerous libraries and frameworks
• Active online forums and learning communities
• Plenty of open-source projects for practical learning

The Python learning journey is a marathon, not a sprint. Consistent, structured learning with practical application shall transform your technological capabilities and open numerous professional opportunities. Python opens a gateway to understand how technology can solve real-world problems. It’s about developing a new way of thinking, solving problems, and understanding the machine world.

Getting systems ready to begin the learning journey

The prerequisites of beginning the Python learning journey are minimal as it is a beginner-friendly language and does not require any prior knowledge of coding. Having the following habits and tools will make the learning journey smoother and more rewarding.

• Curiosity and patience: Programming is about problem-solving and exploration. Expect to make mistakes.
• Goal Orientation: Have a clear purpose or goal for learning Python.
• Willingness to Practice: Allocate consistent time to experiment and write code, even if it’s just 20–30 minutes a day.
• Computer familiarity: Using a computer, typing, navigating folders, and installing software.
• Basic Math: Addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division are enough to start.
• Approach: Logic and reasoning skills are more important than math for beginners.

Download and install Python from the official site. Along with the Python application on your system, you will also need a text editor like Notepad++ or a Python IDE (Integrated Development Environment) like PyCharm, VS Code, or Jupyter Notebook. Alternatively, beginners can also use online platforms like Google Colab or Replit to write and test codes without installations. According to Radošević et al. (2009), programming cannot be learned quickly and without practice. Making consistent progress with practice is the cornerstone of mastering programming in Python.

References

• Guido van Rossum: The Early Years of Python. (2015, February 1). IEEE Journals & Magazine | IEEE Xplore. https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/document/7042702
• Radošević, D., Orehovački, T., & Lovrenčić, A. (2009, September 23). New approaches and tools in teaching programming. https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=2505767