The Power Of Python
In the Late 80s, the CWI research lab was tasked with developing a Micro-Kernel development system called Amoeba. A Young programmer called Guido Van Rossum joined the project after previously working on a programming language called ABC.
While working on the system, he realized that most of the applications were either written in inner shell or C which both had major downsides making the work insanely difficult. So with the experience he acquired while working on ABC, he decided to create a programming language in between the 2.
On February 20, 1991, the first version of Python was launched. He might not have known it back then, but he had just created one of the most important programming languages of all time. One that will be used across a multitude of fields and used to create some of the most important systems that help make our lives easier.
USES OF PYTHON
As mentioned above Python is a very versatile language used by nearly everyone, from programmers to bankers and in the following lines, we are going to see how you can apply your knowledge of python to these areas.
1. Automation
If you’ve ever spent hours renaming files or updating hundreds of spreadsheet cells, you know how tedious these tasks can be, but with the help of Python, you can have your computer do it all for you. Python makes it very easy to write code that will do all of these tasks for you in less time and using fewer resources. The Best part is, you don’t even have to be an expert to do this, you can write code that will automate these tasks for you with just a basic understanding of the language. So if you are an office worker, scientist, doctor or anything else, learning python will reduce your workload massively and make your life easier.
2. Data Analysis and Big Data
For those of you who are not familiar with the Term Big Data, it refers to data that contains greater variety, arrives in increasing volumes and with more velocity. And if this sounds confusing, well it’s because it is confusing, but put simply Big Data refers to larger, more complex data sets, especially from new data sources. Python is considered one of the best tools for Big Data and Data Analysis jobs because of the simplicity of its syntax and its advanced Library Support which make it the perfect fit when it comes to Integration between Data Analysis and Web apps OR Statistical code with the production of Databases. In Addition, Python’s active community makes it easier to find solutions to any problems which is a huge benefit because Data Analysis projects are very complex, so having this helps take a huge load off your back. To get started with Python and Data Analysis you can use Pandas data Analytics Library and NumPy to handle scientific computing and mathematical functions.
3. Mobile Development
Python might not be the best choice of language when it comes to mobile development because it doesn’t have built-in mobile development capabilities. You’ll have a better experience using Kotlin and Java. But if you don’t want to learn these two languages you can still use tools like Kivy, PyQt or even Toga Library to help bring your mobile apps to life. However, Kivy might be a better option since it is cross-platform and easier to use.
4. Python For Game Development
The No 1 choice to consider when developing games with python is without a doubt Pygame. Pygame is a set of python modules used to develop games in Python. It is Cross-Platform, contains libraries for sound, graphics, text etc..and there are hundreds of online tutorials available for free to help you get started with the program. Games like Flappy Bird were made using Pygame. Even though it is mostly used for 2D games it is possible to make 3D using Pygame but it will be much more difficult.
5 . Python For Robotics
Python is widely used in Computer Science and Machine Learning. Using Raspberry Pi, you can even program functionalities for robots and AI. The popularity of Python among Robotics Engineers has grown exponentially over the years and quickly became a vital tool for them because of its simple syntax which makes it easier to write and test code. So if you are considering a career in AI and Robotics, python might be a good language to start with.
6. Desktop Applications
Here you have 2 main options, you can either use PyQt which is Powerful, Cross-platform and free. Or you can use Tkinte r, which has an Interface making it easier to use, thousands of online tutorials due to its popularity among python programmers and it is powerful too. The choice is yours, see which one among the 2 you like better and get started on your journey of becoming a desktop app developer and landing your dream job.
7. Backend Web Development using Python
Even though JavaScript became a Mastodon in the backend web development domain, its position as No1 choice is constantly being challenged by Python which through the help of libraries like Django, CherryPy etc.. is becoming a very popular choice among web developers. There are some functionalities of websites like Instagram, Spotify and YouTube that have been programmed using Python Libraries. So you can try out Python if you consider getting into Web Development.
8. Python For Network Programming
Python Provides 2 levels of access to Network services. At a low level, you can access the basic socket support in the Underlying OS, which allows you to Implement Clients and Servers for Connection-oriented or Connection protocols. Python also has libraries that provide higher-level access to specific application-level network protocols such as FTP, HTTP and so on. Basically, you can use Python to create servers using Libraries like Asyncio, Diesel and Pulsar.
Even though python is a great programming language there is a major downside to using it that you should take into account and that is its speed. Python is a very slow language at runtime. So if you are planning to work on a project where speed should be high, python will not be the best option. Adding on to it, it has Poor memory Management which becomes a real problem when the app needs memory optimization.
Python has been a dominant force in the programming world for years now and will continue to be in the years to come. Learning Python will give you a real advantage over other programmers since you’ll be able to work on more programming projects which will open the doors to more job opportunities. It might get difficult at times but remember never to give up on your objectives. Thank you for reading this article, consider leaving a like or a comment, or even subscribing to my blog to get more articles like this. You can join my discord server using this link McDev and I’ll see you next time.
Originally published at https://mcdev.hashnode.dev.
