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Coursera

Python Basics and Core Concepts

Packt via Coursera

Overview

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This course features Coursera Coach! A smarter way to learn with interactive, real-time conversations that help you test your knowledge, challenge assumptions, and deepen your understanding as you progress through the course. Learn the fundamentals of Python, from setting up your environment to mastering key programming concepts such as variables, functions, data types, and object-oriented programming. By the end of the course, you will have a solid understanding of Python's core concepts, enabling you to start building programs with confidence. Through a structured series of lessons and hands-on practice, you will walk through Python's most important features, including data types like lists, tuples, dictionaries, and sets, and functions like print(), input(), and dir(). You'll also work with advanced topics like string manipulation, numeric types, and magic methods, while focusing on best practices in code formatting, PEP 8 guidelines, and using IDEs like PyCharm. This course is designed for learners at all levels, whether you are completely new to programming or looking to solidify your Python skills. With interactive tutorials, exercises, and real-world projects, you'll be prepared for further exploration into Python, from web development to data science.

Syllabus

  • Introduction to Python
    • In this module, we will introduce you to Python, covering everything from setting up your coding environment to exploring Python's core features. You'll learn how to install Python, use different development tools, and begin experimenting with Python through the interactive interpreter.
  • Installing and Using Pycharm IDE
    • In this module, we will guide you through installing and setting up PyCharm, a powerful Python IDE. You'll become familiar with the interface, learn how to manage projects, and understand key features that enhance your coding workflow.
  • Basics Concepts in Python
    • In this module, we will cover the foundational concepts of Python, focusing on the object-oriented paradigm and key data types. You'll practice working with strings, integers, booleans, lists, and dictionaries, gaining a strong understanding of Python's structure and functionality.
  • Introduction to Functions and Built-in Functions in Python
    • In this module, we will introduce you to functions in Python, covering both custom and built-in functions. You’ll learn how to define functions, pass arguments, use the return statement, and explore important built-in functions to enhance your coding efficiency.
  • Code formatting and PEP8
    • In this module, we will focus on code formatting and the PEP 8 style guide, which helps ensure clean, readable, and consistent code. You’ll learn about proper indentation, how to follow Python’s best practices, and how to enable auto-formatting in PyCharm for seamless coding.
  • Comments
    • In this module, we will explore the role of comments in Python programming, focusing on their significance for clarity and collaboration. You’ll practice adding comments to your code to ensure it remains understandable and easy to maintain.
  • Expressions and Instructions
    • In this module, we will dive into the concepts of expressions and statements in Python. You'll learn how expressions represent values and perform operations, while statements control the logic and flow of your program. Through practical exercises, you'll gain hands-on experience in using both expressions and statements.
  • Variables
    • In this module, we will introduce you to the concept of variables in Python. You’ll learn how variables store data and explore various types used in Python. Through hands-on exercises, you'll gain experience defining and working with variables to manage and manipulate data in your programs.
  • Data Types and structures
    • In this module, we will dive deep into Python’s dynamic typing system, explore core data types and structures, and demonstrate how to manage and manipulate data effectively. Through practical exercises, you'll gain valuable experience working with Python’s built-in functions and data classes.
  • Strings
    • In this module, we will dive into Python strings, emphasizing their immutability and how they are handled as objects. You’ll learn essential string methods and gain hands-on experience working with strings, including creating, modifying, and using various string operations in Python.
  • String Concatenation
    • In this module, we will dive into string concatenation techniques in Python. You’ll learn how to use the + operator and discover F-strings for more efficient and readable formatting. We will also explore other methods for formatting strings, helping you choose the best option for your coding needs.
  • Numeric Types
    • In this module, we will explore Python’s numeric types, including integers, floating-point numbers, and complex numbers. You’ll practice working with these types, from basic arithmetic operations to more advanced concepts like rounding floats and handling complex numbers.
  • Boolean Values
    • In this module, we will focus on Boolean values in Python, exploring their role in logical operations and comparisons. You’ll also practice type conversion, learning how to handle different data types effectively and prevent errors in your programs.
  • Magic Methods
    • In this module, we will dive into magic methods in Python, which allow implicit operations between different types. You'll also learn how to use the dir() function to access attributes and methods, including magic methods, enhancing your ability to work with Python’s object-oriented features.
  • Lists
    • In this module, we will focus on Python lists, exploring their structure, key methods, and how to modify and access elements. You’ll practice copying lists, manipulating their contents, and applying your knowledge to real tasks that involve working with lists in Python.
  • Dictionaries
    • In this module, we will dive deep into Python dictionaries, focusing on their creation, manipulation, and methods. You'll explore nested dictionaries, use the get() method for error handling, and practice converting other types into dictionaries. Finally, you’ll apply your skills in a practical task that involves user input and dictionary manipulation.
  • Tuples
    • In this module, we will focus on Python tuples, exploring their structure, immutability, and when to use them. You’ll practice creating and accessing tuples, as well as using built-in methods to work with tuple data effectively.
  • Sets
    • In this module, we will explore Python sets, a powerful data structure that ensures uniqueness and enables efficient data manipulation. You'll practice set operations, explore essential set methods, and work through practical examples to deepen your understanding of sets in Python.
  • Ranges
    • In this module, we will dive into Python's Range class, focusing on its use in iteration and loop operations. You’ll practice creating and working with ranges, and explore various methods and attributes to manipulate and analyze sequences of numbers.
  • Working with Sequences
    • In this module, we will focus on working with sequences in Python, exploring essential functions and operations. You'll learn how to manipulate sequences, use the zip() function to merge and convert data, and compare different sequence types to choose the best one for your needs.
  • Modifying Objects in Python
    • In this module, we will explore how Python handles the modification of objects, focusing on mutable and immutable types. You’ll learn techniques for preventing unintended changes by creating deep copies of objects, ensuring independence in your data structures and maintaining clean memory management.

Taught by

Packt - Course Instructors

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