Test-Driven Development with Python, 3rd Edition

Prerequisites and Assumptions

Here’s an outline of what I’m assuming about you and what you already know, as well as what software you’ll need ready and installed on your computer.

Python 3 and Programming

I’ve tried to write this book with beginners in mind, but if you’re new to programming, I’m assuming that you’ve already learned the basics of Python. So if you haven’t already, do run through a Python beginner’s tutorial or get an introductory book like The Quick Python Book or Think Python, or (just for fun) Invent Your Own Computer Games with Python—all of which are excellent introductions.

If you’re an experienced programmer but new to Python, you should get along just fine. Python is joyously simple to understand.

You should be able to follow this book on Mac, Windows, or Linux. Detailed installation instructions for each OS follow.

Tip

This book was tested against Python 3.14. If you’re on an earlier version, you will find minor differences in the way things look in my command output listings (tracebacks won’t have the ^^^^^^ carets marking error locations, for example), so you’re best off upgrading, ideally, if you can.

In any case, I expect you to have access to Python, to know how to launch it from a command line, and to know how to edit a Python file and run it. Again, have a look at the three books I recommended previously if you’re in any doubt.

How HTML Works

I’m also assuming you have a basic grasp of how the web works—what HTML is, what a POST request is, ...