How to get started with python.

So you think to yourself, Man those coding dudes sure are cool! Or maybe your a coding guru and just want to learn another language to brag about in your mothers basement? Well either way you have chosen the right language. Python is one of the easiest and simple languages out there, yet it has the ability to do so much.

Now you may be thinking why is python so good or different from other languages, well let me tell you:

1. Simplicity = Easy to understand and pick up, great for newbies.
2. Rapid project development = With its simplicity it makes it a lot easier to quickly finish projects
3. Open source = Python is GNU open source meaning anyone can change and modify the source code.
4. Lots of resources = Great community loves to put out free resources.
5. Free = Most everything in python is FREE.

And from python.org

"Python is a remarkably powerful dynamic programming language that is used in a wide variety of application domains. Python is often compared to Tcl, Perl, Ruby, Scheme or Java. Some of its key distinguishing features include:

very clear, readable syntax
strong introspection capabilities
intuitive object orientation
natural expression of procedural code
full modularity, supporting hierarchical packages
exception-based error handling
very high level dynamic data types
extensive standard libraries and third party modules for virtually every task
extensions and modules easily written in C, C++ (or Java for Jython, or .NET languages for IronPython)
embeddable within applications as a scripting interface"

Cool stuff eh?

More about stuff and reasons to choose python here.

Note: All pictures have copyrights to their respective owners. I believe all of them are free to use but i may have made a mistake.

(This instructable is not really a step by step in learning python its more of a resource for helping find resources.)

Step 1: Getting python.

Now you may be thinking to yourself "Geez! This language sounds amazing how do i get started in it!?!?!"

Well first your going to need to download it. Find your system here and download what you need for it.

I would recommend trying python 2.x first because not many things currently run with python 3.x.

Then find Idle. If your using windows Just go to start -> All programs -> Python2.x->IDLE 

Once that is open you will see a header talking about python and a blinking cursor. Congratulations you have opened python.

Now click file -> New window and you have a syntax highlighting python scripting environment.

Note: If your having trouble finding idle send me a message. 

Comments

[www139]

The program you do this on seems simple. I think you might like "komodo".

[tynow]

when i run it says there is a syntax error in the stuff at the beggining. in 2.7.1 it highlights the 7 and says syntax error

[tynow]

nevermind, forgot about new window

[octopuscabbage]

Don't worry- I still do that sometimes...

[h0meIandsecurity]

python is very good program, i used it on nokia n73 and i could make false calls, false messagess, false warnings.....it can make applications and games for symbian mobile phones!!!

[Ausm]

Also, might I recommend "Invent Your Own Computer Games With Python" e-book?
http://inventwithpython.com/chapters/

[octopuscabbage]

Yeah i have read that book its...ok. It's not as good educationally as the two i recommended but i'll throw it in for good measure.