Who should attend

Python is arguably the most popular language around today, with many organisations using it for a wide variety of purposes from developing web sites, implementing DevOps functions to Machine Learning and Data Analysis. 

This course is ideal for those looking to solidify or formalise their home-grown Python skills or transition from other languages. Also suited for absolute beginners

Prerequisites

• No prior programming experience required: Suitable for those new to coding.
• Basic computer skills: Ability to manage files, install software, use a web browser, etc.
• Willingness to develop abstract thinking: Programming involves problem-solving and thinking in terms of logic and structure.

Getting ready to code

• Getting Started: Installing Python, editors and integrated development environments (IDEs)
• Scripts & Syntax: Basic syntax, script execution, console input/output

Core Python Syntax

• Numbers: Integers and floats
• Strings: Syntax, manipulation, formatting
• Collections: Lists, tuples, sets, dictionaries
• Operators & Expressions: Arithmetic, comparison, logical operators
• Conditions & Loops: if/else, for/while loops, continue/break/else, range and enumerate functions

Structuring your Python code

• Functions: Declaration, invocation, passing in and returning values
• Objects & Classes: Declaration, creating instances, methods and attributes, inheritance
• Modules & Packages: Creating and importing (from) modules
• Exception Handling: try/except

Practical Python applications

• Files & Filesystems: Reading/writing files; copying, moving and renaming files; processing all files in a folder; navigating folders
• Databases: Connecting, querying, and updating databases
• Spreadsheets: Reading and writing data
• Internet & APIs: Requesting web data, handling JSON

Optional bonus materials

Time permitting, the following may also be covered

• Basic image manipulation
• Drawing with Turtle
• Graphical user interfaces (GUIs) with Tkinter

Live, instructor-led online and on-site training

This Python course is available for private / custom delivery for your team - face-to-face, on-site at your location of choice, or remotely via MS Teams, Zoom or your own platform - get in touch to find out how we can deliver tailored training which focuses on your project requirements and learning goals.

Q: What is Python and why should I learn it?

A: Python is a versatile programming language known for its simplicity and readability. It is widely used in various domains like web development, data analysis, machine learning, and more.

Q: How do I install Python on my computer?

A: You can download the latest version of Python from the official website (python.org) and follow the installation instructions provided for your operating system.

Q: What are the basic data types in Python?

A: Python has several built-in data types, including integers, floating-point numbers, strings, lists, tuples, dictionaries, and booleans.

Q: How can I write a "Hello, World!" program in Python?

A: It's simple! Just write print("Hello, World!") and run the code. This will display the "Hello, World!" message on the output.

Q: What are Python libraries and how can I use them?

A: Python libraries are pre-written code modules that provide additional functionality. You can install libraries using tools like pip and import them into your code to leverage their features.

Q: What is the difference between a list and a tuple in Python?

A: A list is mutable, meaning you can change its elements, add new elements, or remove existing ones. In contrast, a tuple is immutable and cannot be modified after creation.

Q: How can I handle errors and exceptions in Python?

A: Python provides try-except blocks to handle exceptions. You can place your code within a try block and use except blocks to catch and handle specific types of exceptions.

Q: What is the purpose of virtual environments in Python?

A: Virtual environments allow you to create isolated Python environments for different projects. They help manage dependencies and prevent conflicts between different project requirements.

Q: How can I read data from a file in Python?

A: You can use the built-in open() function to open a file, specify the file mode (e.g., read, write), and then use methods like read(), readline(), or readlines() to retrieve the file contents.

Q: What are some popular frameworks for web development in Python?

A: Django and Flask are two widely used web frameworks in Python. Django is a full-featured framework suitable for larger projects, while Flask is a lightweight framework often used for smaller applications or APIs.

• Anaconda - a well-curated distribution that helps you install and manage Python plus a wealth of Open Source tools
• PyCharm - popular Python IDE by JetBrains
• Python extension for Visual Studio Code - Microsoft's free IDE is another popular choice for Python developers
• PyDev - another popular IDE - you can install as a standalone or as a plugin for Eclipse
• Jupyter Notebooks - comes with Anaconda but you can install it independently.
• Pip - a simple but effective command-line tool that makes it easy to obtain and install Python packages