Chapter 3

Perl and Python

IN THIS CHAPTER

Bullet Understanding the structure of Perl and Python programs

Bullet Commenting to your heart’s content

Bullet Declaring variables

Bullet Using mathematical operators

Bullet Working with branching and looping statements

Bullet Making functions

Bullet Creating data structures and objects

Perl and Python are scripting languages meant to help programmers create something easily. The main difference between Perl and Python over traditional programming languages is their intended use.

Systems languages (such as C/C++) are meant to create stand-alone applications, such as operating systems or word processors, which is why systems languages are almost always compiled.

Scripting languages are meant more for linking different programs together, such as transferring data that someone types into a ...

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