Python programming

Python programming

I would highly recommend the following websites for free practise of Python. I strongly believe that Python can be mastered only and only with applying it practically (not just rote-learning for exams) and hence highly recommend these websites -

• Learn Python the Hard Way
• Codecademy

For videos on Python programming, I suggest you go to YouTube or Khanacademy.

Following are some useful YouTube playlists I found -

• https://www.youtube.com/playlist...
• https://www.youtube.com/playlist...
• https://www.youtube.com/playlist...

If you want to learn Python in the most effective way, remember the following rules and stick to them -

Rule No. 1: You are going to be extremely confused initially. You are likely to proceed through phases of enjoyment, and you are likely to get ahead of yourself. At some point after learning the syntax you'll be lost, and not really know very well what the heck to accomplish. I too have been there, and I know the way out of that mess. Go through the syntax again! DO NOT QUIT, I promise you that it sinks in after a while.

Rule No. 2: Concentrate on learning Python. Do not start learning Python and get excited and begin learning additional languages at the same time. This is a blunder, I promise you. Take time to focus on one programming language, and get sufficiently good at it to build your personal programs before shifting. If you do not do this, you will definitely get baffled and there is a chance you will simply give up.

Rule No. 3: There is an effective order to learning Python that I have found to be best. First, find out the syntax. I would recommend Codeacademy, for Python. There exists a great community there as well if you get stuck. Second, start attempting the tiny projects right there. Third, once you are feeling as if those projects are pointless, and you have got lost curiosity in them, start exploring Python's libraries and modules, and begin to find a location you are interested in! And finally! Learn a new language that is closely related to your interests.

Rule No. 4: Often try to follow this ratio. 70% of your time should be focused on coding. 30% focused on learning via tutorials, or what-have-you.

Rule No. 5: After you have mastered the basics, find a group of people who practise Python actively and be an active participant of this group. No printed book/medium will offer you an exposure anywhere near to what you will assimilate real life experience.

Getting into the culture of coding, spending time with people who code, joining subreddits, forums, chat rooms, mailing lists dedicated to Python programming and actively participating, going to meet-ups, coding sprints, conventions, etc. are some of the subtle and often-overlooked ways in which you can achieve mastery over Python, and keeps you in the mindset of coding.

Participate in competitions online when you think you are ready for the battle!