Coding For Dummies

Chapter 14

Wrapping Your Head around Python

IN THIS CHAPTER

Understanding Python principles and style

Practicing Python code like assigning variables and using if statements

Doing a simple Python project

I chose Python as a working title for the project, being in a slightly irreverent mood (and a big fan of Monty Python’s Flying Circus).

— GUIDO VAN ROSSUM, CREATOR OF PYTHON

Python is a server-side language created by Guido van Rossum, a developer who was bored during the winter of 1989 and looking for a project to do. At the time, Van Rossum had already helped create one language, called ABC, and the experience had given him many ideas that he thought would appeal to programmers. He executed upon these ideas when he created Python. Although ABC never achieved popularity with programmers, Python was a runaway success. Python is one of the world’s most popular programming languages, used by beginners just starting out and professionals building heavy-duty applications.

In this chapter, you learn Python basics, including the design philosophy behind Python, how to write Python code to perform basic tasks, and steps to create your first Python program.

What Does Python Do?

Python is a general purpose programming language typically used for web development. This may sound similar to the description used for Ruby in the previous chapter, and really both languages are more similar than they are different. Python, like Ruby, allows for storing data after the user has navigated away ...