Learn Python from Scratch 2023: Module 1

Module 1: Introduction to Python

1.1: What is Python and its history? Python is a high-level, interpreted programming language used for web development, machine learning, data analysis, artificial intelligence, and many other applications. Python is known for its simplicity, readability, and ease of use.

Python was created in the late 1980s by Guido van Rossum and was released to the public in 1991. It was named after the popular British comedy group Monty Python.

1.2: Why should you learn Python? Python is a popular language that is widely used in many industries, including finance, healthcare, and technology. Here are some reasons why you should learn Python:

• Python is easy to learn and use
• Python has a large and supportive community
• Python has a vast ecosystem of libraries and frameworks
• Python is versatile and can be used for various applications

1.3: How to install Python? To get started with Python, you need to install it on your computer. Here are the steps to install Python on Windows:

• Step 1: Download Python Go to the official Python website (https://www.python.org/downloads/) and download the latest version of Python.
• Step 2: Install Python Double-click on the downloaded file to launch the Python installer. Follow the instructions to install Python on your computer.

1.4: Setting up the development environment To write and run Python code, you need a development environment. Here are the steps to set up the development environment on Windows:

• Step 1: Install a code editor A code editor is a software program that you use to write and edit code. There are many code editors available for Python, such as Visual Studio Code, PyCharm, and Atom. Choose a code editor that you prefer and install it on your computer.
• Step 2: Open the code editor Launch the code editor that you installed in step 1.
• Step 3: Write your first Python program To write your first Python program, create a new file in the code editor and type the following code:

print("Hello, World!")

• Step 4: Save the file Save the file with a .py extension, such as hello_world.py.
• Step 5: Run the program To run the program, open the command prompt or terminal and navigate to the directory where you saved the file. Then type the following command:

python hello_world.py

This will run the program and print the output “Hello, World!” to the screen.

That’s it for Module 1! By following these steps, you should now have a basic understanding of what Python is, why it’s useful, and how to set up the development environment and write your first Python program.