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Dennis Njenga
Dennis Njenga

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Fundamental Tips for Python Beginners

Python is a very powerful tool as a programming language. It is easily available and is able to provide solutions in various disciplines in the field of technology like web development, Data Science or even machine learning.

A programming language is a set of instructions that enable humans to interact with computers effectively. Examples of known programming languages include Java, C#, C++ among others.

What is Python?

From the definition of what a programming language is, we can out rightly deduce that python is a programming language. But what makes it so special in the technology industry?

Python is a multipurpose or general-purpose, high level programming language. It can be used in multiple fields like web development and data science. It can also be used for processing images, texts and numbers.

History Of Python

Python was initially conceived by Guido Van Rossum in the late 1980s as a research project. In 1991 he released his first coded version of python. This code (labeled version 0.9.0) had classes with inheritance, functions, exception handling, data types and inheritance. Over the years, various developments have taken place to improved its functionalities through the Python software foundation.

What are the Main Characteristics of Python

Python, like other traditional languages, uses many of the same commands, control structures and concepts. It promotes clear coding designs, flexibility and code adheres to its principles. Some characteristics include;

  1. It is a general-purpose language – language that is specific to a domain is intended for a specified purpose.
  2. A high-level language – it is more readable as in other high-level languages.
  3. Supports Object oriented programming – Python supports inheritance, classes, encapsulation, and methods.
  4. Python programs are independent of other platforms
  5. It is an interpreted language
  6. Python is typed dynamically

Python Programming Guidelines

As a beginner, one is essentially required to follow the following guidelines to ensure that their code is readable and is simple;

  1. Write one statement per line
  2. Formulate code in an implicit way
  3. Use consistent indentation
  4. Label everything concisely for future reference.
  5. Add comments to your code
  6. Learn in-built python functions.

Applications Of python Programming

Since python is a high-level language, various applications can be derived from it. These are;

  1. Data science,
  2. Data analysis,
  3. Machine learning,
  4. Web development,
  5. Scripting and tooling and
  6. Artificial intelligence

These applications can be applied in various industries in creating formidable solutions around them like in medicine, finance and business intelligence, Manufacturing and even in the technology industry. Some industry applied solutions include YouTube, Pinterest, Instagram among other use cases.

What are the Pros and Cons of Learning Python as a Beginner?

While learning Python may seem like an interesting thing, it may come with limitations. These advantages and disadvantages are;

Pros of Python

  1. It is easy to learn and use
  2. It is universally accepted and used in various industries
  3. Requires less coding by using simple syntax
  4. It is free as an open-source language
  5. It is very efficient in development of projects
  6. Has extensive built in objects and libraries

Cons of Python

  1. It is memory intensive
  2. Has no multithreading support
  3. It is prone to over use and misuse
  4. It is slow as a language

Conclusion
Python as a high-level programming language is not only powerful to drive immense solutions to industry but is also very easy to understand. It is also a highly valuable skillset in the market today competing among other languages like Java, R, PhP, NodeJS and so on.

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