Lesson 1: Introduction to Python

What is Python?

Python is a high-level, interpreted programming language known for its readability and versatility. Created by Guido van Rossum and first released in 1991, Python’s design philosophy emphasizes code readability with its notable use of significant whitespace.

Key Features of Python:

1. Easy to Learn and Use: Python’s syntax is straightforward, making it an ideal language for beginners.
2. Interpreted Language: Python code is executed line by line, which makes debugging easier.
3. Dynamically Typed: Python doesn’t require declaring the variable type; it gets inferred during runtime.
4. Versatile: Suitable for various types of applications, from web development to data science and artificial intelligence.
5. Extensive Libraries: Python has a vast standard library and many third-party libraries for various tasks.

Basic Concepts in Python:

1. Variables: Used to store data. In Python, you can create a variable simply by assigning it a value, like x = 5.
2. Data Types: Common data types include integers, floats (decimal numbers), strings (text), and booleans (True/False).
3. Control Structures: Includes if statements for decision-making and loops (for, while) for iteration.
4. Functions: Blocks of code designed to perform a specific task; they can be reused. Defined using the def keyword.
5. Lists and Dictionaries: Python supports complex data structures like lists (ordered collections) and dictionaries (key-value pairs).

Example of a Simple Python Program:

pythonCopy code# This is a comment in Python

# Print "Hello, World!"
print("Hello, World!")

# Variables and basic operations
x = 10
y = 5
sum = x + y
print("Sum:", sum)

# Conditional statement
if sum > 10:
    print("Sum is greater than 10")
else:
    print("Sum is not greater than 10")

# Loop
for i in range(5):
    print(i)

How to Run Python Code:

You can run Python code in various environments:

• Python Interpreter: For interactive coding.
• Script Mode: Writing code in a file and then running it.
• Integrated Development Environments (IDEs): Such as PyCharm, VSCode, or Jupyter Notebooks, which provide more tools and features.

Learning Resources:

• Python.org: The official website offers documentation and tutorials.
• Books: “Automate the Boring Stuff with Python” and “Python Crash Course” are great for beginners.

Python is a powerful and flexible language that’s great for beginners and professionals alike. With its wide range of applications, learning Python can open many doors in the fields of software development, data analysis, and beyond.