Python is a versatile, high-level programming language that is widely used for various types of software development. It is known for its readability, simplicity, and flexibility, making it a great choice for beginners and experienced developers alike.

Key Features of Python:

  1. Simple and Easy to Learn: Python has a simple syntax similar to English, which makes it easy to read and understand.
  2. Interpreted Language: Python is an interpreted language, which means you can run your code as soon as you write it.
  3. Dynamically Typed: You don’t need to declare the type of a variable in Python. The interpreter infers the type at runtime.
  4. Versatile: Python can be used for web development, data analysis, artificial intelligence, scientific computing, and more.
  5. Large Standard Library: Python has a large standard library that supports many common programming tasks such as connecting to web servers, reading and modifying files, and working with data.

Setting Up Python

  1. Download and Install:
    • Download Python from python.org.
    • Follow the installation instructions for your operating system.
  2. IDE and Text Editors:
    • You can write Python code in various IDEs and text editors like PyCharm, VS Code, Jupyter Notebook, etc.
    • For beginners, using an IDE like PyCharm or a simple editor like VS Code is recommended.

Writing Your First Python Program

  1. Open your Python IDE or a text editor.
  2. Create a new file and name it hello.py.
  3. Type the following code:
  1. Save the file and run it.
    • If you are using an IDE, there will be a ‘Run’ button or an option to run the code.
    • If you are using a terminal or command prompt, navigate to the directory where the file is saved and type python hello.py.

Basic Python Concepts

  1. Variables and Data Types:
    • Variables are used to store data, and Python supports various data types such as integers, floats, strings, and booleans

Basic Operations:

  • You can perform arithmetic operations using +, -, *, /, and %.

Control Structures:

  • Python supports control structures like if-else, for loops, and while loops.

Functions:

  • Functions in Python are defined using the def keyword.

Lists:

  • Lists are ordered collections of items.

Dictionaries:

  • Dictionaries are collections of key-value pairs.