© The Author(s), under exclusive license to APress Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature 2024
J. R. PaynePython for Teenagershttps://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4842-9988-3_1

1. Introduction to Computer Programming and Python

James R. Payne1  
(1)
Gainesville, GA, USA
 

Computer programming – commonly referred to as “coding” by the cool kids – is the art of creating applications or software. These programs allow us to do everything from solving simple math problems and watching our favorite TikTok videos (I can’t get enough of skydiving bulldogs) to destroying hordes of rampant aliens in our favorite video games and even launching a real-life spaceship into outer space.

I call computer programming an “art” because it is. Anytime you create something, you are ...

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