Python Introduction - Basics & Core Concepts

Introduction to Python Programming

Python is a versatile programming language for building web services, automating tasks, analysing data, and quickly creating simple applications. This intro guide covers Python basics and common tasks to help you move from reading code to writing useful scripts.

Next, let's explore what makes Python unique and how it works.

What is Python Programming?

Python is a high-level, interpreted language known for its clear syntax and focus on code readability.

• Uses indentation for code blocks
• Supports procedural, object-oriented, and functional programming
• Includes a large standard library for many tasks
• Runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux
• Uses dynamic typing and automatic memory management
• Extensible with modules in C, C++, or other languages
• Offers an interactive mode for quick testing and debugging
• Has a vast ecosystem of third-party packages available via pip
• Moreover, Python has 90+ frameworks to simplify development across various tasks

Python Filename Extensions

Below are some common filenames that we use for Python files.

First Python Program

Here is the smallest runnable example to show how syntax of Python script looks lik.

# Define a function to greet a user by name
def greet(name):
    # Create a greeting message
    message = f"Hello, {name}!"
    # Print the greeting
    print(message)

# Call the function with an example name
greet("Alice")

Core Python Programming Concepts

The list below covers all core Python concepts essential for building a strong foundation and developing a wide range of applications. These concepts form the backbone of Python programming and help build both simple scripts and complex applications.

1. Data Types and Variables
2. Strings
3. Numbers (int, float, complex)
4. Lists
5. Tuples
6. Sets
7. Dictionaries
8. Control Flow (if, else, elif)
9. Loops (for, while)
10. Functions
11. Modules and Packages
12. Exception Handling to manage errors
13. File I/O (reading and writing files)
14. Classes and Object-Oriented Programming
15. List Comprehensions and Generator Expressions
16. Lambda Functions and Higher-Order Functions
17. Iterators and Generators
18. Decorators
19. Context Managers
20. Basic Standard Library Usage (e.g., math, datetime, os)
21. Type Hints and Annotations
22. Importing and Using External Libraries

Popular Applications of Python Programming

Due to its versatility, readability, and extensive libraries, Python is applied in diverse fields and industries, as shown below.

1. Web Development:
   • Backend Development
   • API Development
2. Data Science and Analysis:
   • Data Manipulation
   • Data Visualization
   • Statistical Analysis
3. Machine Learning:
   • Model Development
   • Task Automation
4. Automation and Scripting:
   • Task Automation
   • Web Scraping
   • Test Automation
5. Scientific Computing:
   • Numerical Computations
   • Data Analysis and Visualization
6. Educational and Research:
   • Teaching Programming
   • Research in Various Fields
7. Other Notable Uses:
   • Game Development
   • Desktop GUI Applications
   • Network Programming
   • System Administration

Key Features of Python Programming Language

Python is a powerful, beginner-friendly programming language widely used for web development and various software development applications.

• Readable and simple: clean syntax that is easy to learn and maintain.
• Versatile: used for web development, data science, automation, AI, and more.
• Extensive libraries: supports web development, data science, AI, and more.
• Strong community: large developer ecosystem providing resources and support.
• Cross platform: runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux with minimal changes.
• Rapid prototyping: dynamic typing and simple syntax speed development.
• Open source: free to use, modify, and distribute.
• Easy integration: interoperates with other languages and tools.
• Education friendly: commonly used to teach programming fundamentals.

Python Differences From Other Programming Languages

Discover how Python compares to other programming languages in terms of syntax, performance, ecosystem, and application areas, helping you choose the right tool for your development needs.

Python vs PHP: Key Differences

Python and PHP are widely used languages with different syntax, features, and use cases. The table below gives a quick comparison to aid in choosing the right one.

Python vs Java: Key Differences

Python and Java are popular programming languages with distinct syntax, performance, and use cases. The table below offers a quick comparison to guide language selection.