This is the right way to learn Python!

Latest update time：2019-03-27

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Python is one of the most versatile and powerful programming languages in the world.

Text | Wu Wenjing

Python is one of the most versatile and powerful programming languages in the world. People use Python to write their own applications, create games, design algorithms, and even program robots. Not only that, learning Python can also help you find a good job in software engineering, web development, mobile development, or data science, helping you on the road to career advancement. For now, whether it is to create a website or apply for a job at Google, mastering Python is a prerequisite. So, what is the right way to learn Python?

Leifeng.com Note: [Photo source: SELF-TAUGHT Blog Owner: GENEVIEVE CARLTON]

Luckily for those who want to learn Python, there are more resources available now than ever before. But that can make it harder to sift through the books, courses, and other resources out there. Plus, people learn in very different ways—a course that works for one person might not work for another. To find a tailored learning approach, let’s discuss some key things to keep in mind before we look at all the resources out there.

If you can’t answer the following three questions, then don’t spend money on online courses or books to learn Python.

1. Why do you want to learn Python?

2. What is your learning style?

3. How good is your coding level?

First, start with your purpose for studying.

Why do you want to learn Python? Do you want to learn the best way to learn Python because you want to change jobs? Or do you have an idea for a great app that you want to design yourself? Do you want to add coding as a skill to your resume so that you can qualify for a job in the programming industry? Clarifying your motivation will not only focus your attention, but also help you narrow down the resources you look for. For example, if your interests are mainly in web development, a course on data analysis using Python will not be that helpful to you.

After determining your purpose, think about your learning style.

Do you thrive in a structured, school-like environment? Do you prefer to learn skills on your own by reading? Do you perform well when you interact with other students or study alone? Also, think about whether you prefer a gradual teaching method or a more challenging approach? Knowing your learning style can help you find the best way to learn Python for you.

Finally, have a correct understanding of your own coding level.

Do you know other programming languages? Or are you completely new to programming? The best way to learn Python depends on your skill level. If you are a complete beginner, you will need to start with an introductory course or a beginner's book. If you already know Java or C++ and want to learn Python, you can start with a more advanced option. You may prefer tutorials or structured projects to the learning path of online courses.

Remember: there is no shame in starting over! Be honest and open about your level of programming so you can find the best learning method for you.

Now that your goals, learning style, and coding level are determined, you can start looking for a learning method that works for you. Let's start by talking about the main ways to learn Python, including books, online courses, tutorials, and structured projects.

books

The Self-Taught Programmer: This book is based on the author Cory Althoff's experience in learning programming and applying for a software engineer position at eBay. It not only teaches Python, but also includes tips on how to become a software engineer, including how to pass a technical job interview and how to find a job in the programming field.

Python Crash Course: This book introduces programming concepts, trains readers to test their code, and helps them create their first projects based on various Python projects. The projects focus on games and data analysis.

Learn Python the Hard Way: This is a challenging tutorial that takes readers into programming through 52 exercises. By completing these exercises, readers can learn professional programming skills. This method is best suited for people who have some programming knowledge or like a challenge.

Automate the Boring Stuff with Python: This book allows you to automate your daily tasks, such as moving data from one spreadsheet to another. The main audience of this book is new programmers. This book is especially useful for those who want to learn programming to automate their lives, but do not intend to pursue software development as a career path.

Python Cookbook: This book is more of a cheat sheet than a beginner's manual for learning Python. It provides practical tips for experienced programmers. The book shows code for designing algorithms and web programming. If you want to learn Python and have some programming experience, this book is a good choice.

Online Courses

Code Academy: Learn Python: Currently, more than 10,000 people have participated in the third session of Code Academy's "Learn Python". The course is equipped with interactive exercises, beginner training, and reinforcement of additional skills. For beginners, Code Academy's courses are very suitable for getting started.

Pluralsight: From beginners to experts, the Pluralsight platform offers Python courses for everything. If you already know how to program, this platform is a great choice as it is often one of the top resources for advanced programmers.

Python for Entrepreneurs: This course helps entrepreneurs learn Python and turn their visions into reality. However, this course requires basic programming knowledge and focuses on business code.

GoSelfTaught: This is a community-based platform that teaches you how to program in Python. By joining this program, you gain access to a Facebook community of over 1,000 members who are learning to program together. The program also includes over 100 hours of exercises and homework, in addition to weekly group live training. Participants also receive a free electronic copy of The Self-Taught Programmer. This hybrid approach accommodates different learning styles and is specifically created to help beginners learn professional programming.

Tutorials and structured projects

Real Python: Real Python offers multiple tutorials on Python, many of which focus on web development. Tutorials cover Django and other popular Python web frameworks, providing key skills for Python web developers. The site also offers courses for beginners, intermediate Python developers, and programmers proficient in other programming languages.

Python Jumpstart: Teaching Python by completing ten structured projects, Python Jumpstart attracts people with programming experience who want to add Python to their resume. Because of the focus on building projects, this platform may be best suited for learners who like hands-on learning.

Dataquest: If your goal is to become a data scientist, Dataquest might be the right choice. The program provides guides and tutorials for learning Python, working with data, and creating projects.

Official Python Documentation: For advanced programmers looking to learn Python, the best option is probably to read the Official Python Documentation. Python is known for having a supportive and active community.

These tools can help everyone, from beginners to programming experts, learn Python.

Remember! The best way to learn Python depends on your learning style. Some people sit down with a book and teach themselves to program. That's how Elon Musk learned to program. Others prefer to take regular online courses. Sometimes a hybrid approach that combines tutorials, live conversations, and books works best, which is how goselftaught.com's courses work.

Once you have determined your goals, learning style, and your coding level, you can start learning Python.

Leifeng.com Note: This article is translated from SELF-TAUGHT Blog

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