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Elise Deitrick and Patrick Ester

Code and run your first python program in minutes without installing anything!

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Code and run your first python program in minutes without installing anything!

This course is designed for learners with limited coding experience, providing a solid foundation of not just python, but core Computer Science topics that can be transferred to other languages. The modules in this course cover lists, strings, and files. Completion of Python Basics: Selection and Iteration before taking this course is recommended.

To allow for a truly hands-on, self-paced learning experience, this course is video-free. Assignments contain short explanations with images and runnable code examples with suggested edits to explore code examples further, building a deeper understanding by doing. You'll benefit from instant feedback from a variety of assessment items along the way, gently progressing from quick understanding checks (multiple choice, fill in the blank, and un-scrambling code blocks) to small, approachable coding exercises that take minutes instead of hours.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Lists
Welcome to Week 1 of the Python Basic Structures: Lists, Strings, and Files course. These assignments cover using lists to store multiple pieces of data in a single variable and iterating over lists or using built-in methods and functions to manipulate lists. The module ends with a lab and graded coding exercises.
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Strings
Welcome to Week 2 of the Python Basic Structures: Lists, Strings, and Files course. These assignments cover storing multiple characters or text in a string and using built-in methods and functions to manipulate strings. The module ends with a lab and graded coding exercises.
Files
Welcome to Week 3 of the Python Basic Structures: Lists, Strings, and Files course. These assignments cover importing and exporting large pieces of data from text and CSV files. The module ends with a lab and graded coding exercises.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Develops core computer science concepts applicable to other languages
Suited for novice learners, building a foundation in Python basics
Offers hands-on coding exercises that reinforce learning
Provides immediate feedback on assignments
Advises completing 'Python Basics: Selection and Iteration' first, indicating it's part of a series
Emphasizes the importance of lists, strings, and files in programming

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Reviews summary

Python basics: well-received

Learners say this course is a great choice for learning Python basics. According to students, this course provides engaging assignments and a nice way of teaching. Although some learners mention confusing exercises, most agree that this is a great course.
Learners appreciate the engaging assignments provided in this course.
"Really enjoyed the course! Nice way of teaching."
Overall, learners are pleased with this course.
"Really enjoyed the course! Nice way of teaching."
"This is the right choice to learn the python basics it is good."
"Python Basic Structures: Lists, Strings, and Files- very useful "
Some students mention a few confusing exercises.
"Very good course. But some of the excercises are confusing, such as the one with textfile in reverse. It should have specified that only the lines were supposed to be reversed."
"Also, sometimes the auto correction is a bit ridiculous, such as evaluating the whole programming excercise as wrong for missing a dot at the end of a sentence on print."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Python Basic Structures: Lists, Strings, and Files with these activities:
Review basic Python syntax and data types
Strengthen your foundation by reviewing the basics of Python syntax and data types.
Browse courses on Python Syntax
Show steps
  • Go through your previous Python notes or course materials
  • Revisit online tutorials or resources covering Python syntax and data types
  • Complete short practice exercises to test your understanding
Read 'Fluent Python' by Luciano Ramalho
Expand your Python knowledge and deepen your understanding of coding concepts by reading this recommended book.
Show steps
  • Locate a copy of the book 'Fluent Python' by Luciano Ramalho
  • Read the book thoroughly, taking notes and highlighting key concepts
  • Complete the exercises and challenges provided in the book to test your understanding
Organize and review course materials
Improve your understanding and retention by organizing and reviewing course materials regularly.
Show steps
  • Create a dedicated folder or notebook for course materials
  • Sort and arrange notes, assignments, quizzes, and exams
  • Review materials periodically, highlighting key concepts and summarizing important points
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Build a Python program to manage a simple budget
Apply your Python skills by building a real-world project that helps you manage your finances better.
Browse courses on Programming
Show steps
  • Plan and design the structure and functionality of your budget management program
  • Write the Python code for your program
  • Test and debug your program
  • Document your program's usage and functionality
Follow tutorials on Python list comprehensions
Reinforce your knowledge of Python list comprehensions by following online tutorials and completing practice exercises.
Show steps
  • Identify reputable online resources or tutorials on Python list comprehensions
  • Follow the tutorials and complete the associated practice exercises
Solve Python coding challenges on LeetCode
Enhance your Python problem-solving skills by attempting coding challenges on LeetCode.
Browse courses on Python Programming
Show steps
  • Create a LeetCode account
  • Select Python as your preferred language
  • Choose a problem from the 'Easy' or 'Medium' difficulty level
  • Attempt to solve the problem on your own
  • Review the discussion forum for alternative solutions and insights
Practice Python string manipulation methods
Practice using Python string manipulation methods to solidify your understanding of this topic.
Show steps
  • Find online Python string manipulation exercises or challenges
  • Solve at least 25 exercises or challenges

Career center

Learners who complete Python Basic Structures: Lists, Strings, and Files will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Data Analyst
Data Analysts are responsible for collecting, cleaning, and analyzing data to help businesses make informed decisions. The Python Basic Structures: Lists, Strings, and Files course can help Data Analysts by providing them with a strong foundation in Python programming, which is a valuable skill for data manipulation and analysis. The course also covers topics such as data structures and algorithms, which are essential for working with large datasets.
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software applications. The Python Basic Structures: Lists, Strings, and Files course can help Software Engineers by providing them with a strong foundation in Python programming, which is a widely-used language for software development. The course also covers topics such as data structures and algorithms, which are essential for building efficient and reliable software.
Data Scientist
Data Scientists use data to build models and make predictions. The Python Basic Structures: Lists, Strings, and Files course can help Data Scientists by providing them with a strong foundation in Python programming, which is a valuable skill for data manipulation and analysis. The course also covers topics such as data structures and algorithms, which are essential for working with large datasets.
Machine Learning Engineer
Machine Learning Engineers build and maintain machine learning models. The Python Basic Structures: Lists, Strings, and Files course can help Machine Learning Engineers by providing them with a strong foundation in Python programming, which is a widely-used language for machine learning. The course also covers topics such as data structures and algorithms, which are essential for building efficient and reliable machine learning models.
Web Developer
Web Developers design and develop websites. The Python Basic Structures: Lists, Strings, and Files course can help Web Developers by providing them with a strong foundation in Python programming, which is a valuable skill for web development. The course also covers topics such as data structures and algorithms, which are essential for building efficient and reliable web applications.
Database Administrator
Database Administrators are responsible for managing and maintaining databases. The Python Basic Structures: Lists, Strings, and Files course can help Database Administrators by providing them with a strong foundation in Python programming, which is a valuable skill for data manipulation and management. The course also covers topics such as data structures and algorithms, which are essential for working with large datasets.
Systems Administrator
Systems Administrators are responsible for managing and maintaining computer systems. The Python Basic Structures: Lists, Strings, and Files course can help Systems Administrators by providing them with a strong foundation in Python programming, which is a valuable skill for system administration. The course also covers topics such as data structures and algorithms, which are essential for working with large datasets.
Network Administrator
Network Administrators are responsible for managing and maintaining computer networks. The Python Basic Structures: Lists, Strings, and Files course can help Network Administrators by providing them with a strong foundation in Python programming, which is a valuable skill for network administration. The course also covers topics such as data structures and algorithms, which are essential for working with large datasets.
Security Analyst
Security Analysts are responsible for protecting computer systems and networks from security threats. The Python Basic Structures: Lists, Strings, and Files course can help Security Analysts by providing them with a strong foundation in Python programming, which is a valuable skill for security analysis. The course also covers topics such as data structures and algorithms, which are essential for working with large datasets.
Computer Programmer
Computer Programmers write and maintain computer programs. The Python Basic Structures: Lists, Strings, and Files course can help Computer Programmers by providing them with a strong foundation in Python programming, which is a widely-used language for computer programming. The course also covers topics such as data structures and algorithms, which are essential for building efficient and reliable computer programs.
Computer Technician
Computer Technicians provide technical support to computer users. The Python Basic Structures: Lists, Strings, and Files course can help Computer Technicians by providing them with a strong foundation in Python programming, which is a valuable skill for troubleshooting computer problems. The course also covers topics such as data structures and algorithms, which are essential for working with large datasets.
Help Desk Technician
Help Desk Technicians provide technical support to computer users. The Python Basic Structures: Lists, Strings, and Files course can help Help Desk Technicians by providing them with a strong foundation in Python programming, which is a valuable skill for troubleshooting computer problems. The course also covers topics such as data structures and algorithms, which are essential for working with large datasets.
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create technical documentation. The Python Basic Structures: Lists, Strings, and Files course may be useful for Technical Writers by providing them with a basic understanding of Python programming, which can be helpful for writing documentation for software and other technical products.
Project Manager
Project Managers plan and manage projects. The Python Basic Structures: Lists, Strings, and Files course may be useful for Project Managers by providing them with a basic understanding of Python programming, which can be helpful for managing software development projects.
Business Analyst
Business Analysts analyze business processes and systems. The Python Basic Structures: Lists, Strings, and Files course may be useful for Business Analysts by providing them with a basic understanding of Python programming, which can be helpful for analyzing data and developing business solutions.

Reading list

We've selected 14 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Python Basic Structures: Lists, Strings, and Files.
Offers a practical and project-based approach to learning Python. It covers essential concepts like lists, strings, and file handling, and provides hands-on exercises that align well with the course's assignments.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to Python programming, covering basic data structures such as lists, strings, and files. It is suitable for beginners with no prior programming experience and can serve as a valuable reference for the course.
Focuses on practical applications of Python programming. It covers topics such as file handling, data manipulation, and web scraping, which complement the course's emphasis on lists, strings, and files.
Provides a comprehensive overview of Python's data science capabilities. Although it delves into more advanced topics than the course covers, it offers valuable background knowledge for those interested in exploring data science applications.
Provides a gentle introduction to Python programming, focusing on data analysis and visualization. While it may not cover all the topics in the course in as much detail, it can serve as a valuable resource for beginners who want to explore data analysis applications of Python.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to computer science using Python. It covers concepts like data structures, algorithms, and object-oriented programming, offering a broader perspective than the course's focus on specific data structures.
Focuses on best practices and code optimization techniques for Python programming. While it does not directly cover the core concepts of the course, it can supplement the learning by providing guidance on writing efficient and maintainable code.
Offers a deep dive into the intricacies of Python programming. It provides advanced insights into data structures, object-oriented programming, and functional programming, which can extend the learning beyond the scope of the course.
Focuses on Python's capabilities for data analysis. While it covers more advanced topics than the course, it provides valuable insights into the use of Python for data manipulation and analysis, which may be of interest to learners interested in data science applications.
Serves as a comprehensive reference for Python programming. While it may not provide structured learning like a textbook, it offers a valuable resource for quickly looking up information or clarifying specific topics related to the course material.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the Python Standard Library. While it may not be directly relevant to the course's specific topics, it offers a valuable resource for exploring the wide range of functionality available in the Python ecosystem.
Provides a deep dive into Python's object-oriented programming capabilities. Although it goes beyond the scope of the course, it offers valuable insights into advanced Python programming techniques, which may be of interest to learners who want to explore object-oriented programming in more detail.
Provides a comprehensive treatment of data structures and algorithms using Python. Although it goes beyond the scope of the course, it offers a thorough foundation for further exploration of these topics.

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