Introduction to Python: Absolute Beginner from edX

Brand new to text-based programming? Check out this hands-on course for an in-depth look at the details of Python layers and concepts. Get ample practice drills and projects, using Jupyter Notebooks on Azure, which require only a browser and an Internet connection. Learn best practices and begin coding almost immediately.

After you explore data types and variables, take a look at strings, input, testing, and formatting. From there, learn about arguments and parameters, along with conditionals and nested conditionals. By the end of the course, you'll be able to create programs that prompt users for input and use conditional (True/False) logic and Python methods to manipulate numbers and text to provide responses to the users, in addition to requesting further input. Plus, learn basic troubleshooting for your code. Sign up, and get started coding right away!

Ready for next steps? Take the Introduction to Python: Fundamentals course.

Note: These courses will retire in June. Please enroll only if you are able to finish your coursework in time.

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Know what's good

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Ideal for beginners, this course offers a thorough grounding in Python's fundamental concepts

Emphasizes practical application with practice drills and projects, fostering immediate hands-on experience

Suitable for learners who are new to text-based programming

Reviews summary

Clear explanations for beginners

This course is a well-received introduction to Python that is perfect for beginners. With its clear explanations and a focus on hands-on learning, you'll be writing code in no time.

Practice drills and projects help solidify learning.

Perfect course for those new to coding.

"This course si intended to people whow have no prior knowledge on programming languages, software..."

Course may not be suitable for those with more advanced knowledge of Python.

"Bad. This is NOT developed by educators, but by myopic, professional python coders."

Career center

Learners who complete Introduction to Python: Absolute Beginner will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Data Scientist

Data Scientists analyze data to extract meaningful insights and trends. They use various statistical and machine learning techniques to build models that can predict and forecast future outcomes. They also help organizations make data-driven decisions. This course can be useful for someone who wants to become a Data Scientist because it covers topics like data exploration, data cleaning, data modeling, and data visualization. These are the fundamental skills that Data Scientists use to extract insights from data, build models, and present their findings.

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Data Engineer

Data Engineers build and maintain data pipelines. They develop and manage the infrastructure that collects, stores, and processes data. As a Data Engineer, it is critical to understand how to code. Data Engineers often need to write code to automate tasks and solve problems. This course on Python will help build a foundation of coding skills that are immediately applicable to the field of Data Engineering.

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Data Analyst

Data Analysts turn raw data into meaningful information. They play an important part in the success of a business. They gather raw data, analyze it, and interpret the results to help businesses make better decisions. They develop data collection methods, write computer programs to clean and analyze data, and provide recommendations to stakeholders. A basic understanding of programming can be very helpful for Data Analysts. This course could prove to be very useful for someone who wants to become a Data Analyst.

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Machine Learning Engineer

Machine Learning Engineers build and maintain machine learning models. They use various statistical and machine learning techniques to automate complex tasks. They also work on the infrastructure that supports machine learning models. This course can be helpful for someone who wants to become a Machine Learning Engineer because it covers topics like data exploration, data cleaning, data modeling, and data visualization. These are the fundamental skills that Machine Learning Engineers use to build and maintain machine learning models.

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Systems Analyst

Systems Analysts analyze and design computer systems. They work with users to gather requirements and develop solutions. They also create documentation and provide training on new systems. This course can be helpful for someone who wants to become a Systems Analyst because it teaches the basics of coding and computer systems. These skills can be useful for Systems Analysts who need to design and implement new systems.

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DevOps Engineer

DevOps Engineers work with developers and operations teams to build and maintain software applications. They automate tasks and processes to improve the efficiency of the software development process. This course can be helpful for someone who wants to become a DevOps Engineer because it teaches the basics of coding and software development. These skills can be useful for DevOps Engineers who need to automate tasks and improve the efficiency of the software development process.

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Software Tester

Software Testers test software applications to find and fix bugs. They work with developers to identify and reproduce bugs. They also create test plans and write test scripts. This course can be helpful for someone who wants to become a Software Tester because it teaches the basics of coding and software testing. These skills can be useful for Software Testers who need to test software applications for bugs.

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Software Engineer

Software Engineers apply the principles of computer science and software design to build and maintain applications, frameworks, and operating systems. There are different types of Software Engineers. Some focus on back-end development, others on front-end development. Still others on mobile development. Regardless, a core skill that all Software Engineers require is the ability to code. This introductory course on Python from Microsoft can be very helpful for individuals looking to begin a career in Software Engineering.

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IT Auditor

IT Auditors evaluate the security and effectiveness of computer systems and networks. They work with stakeholders to identify risks and develop audit plans. They also conduct audits and prepare audit reports. This course can be helpful for someone who wants to become an IT Auditor because it teaches the basics of coding and computer networks. These skills can be useful for IT Auditors who need to audit computer systems and networks for security vulnerabilities.

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Information Security Analyst

Information Security Analysts protect computer systems and networks from unauthorized access and attacks. They work with stakeholders to identify security risks and develop security measures. They also monitor security systems and investigate security breaches. This course can be helpful for someone who wants to become an Information Security Analyst because it teaches the basics of coding and computer networks. These skills can be useful for Information Security Analysts who need to protect systems from cyberattacks.

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Business Analyst

Business Analysts analyze business processes and identify areas for improvement. They work with stakeholders to gather requirements and develop solutions. They also create documentation and provide training on new processes. This course on Python can be helpful for someone who wants to become a Business Analyst because it teaches the basics of coding and data analysis. These skills can be useful for Business Analysts who want to automate tasks or analyze data to identify areas for improvement.

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Computer Systems Analyst

Computer Systems Analysts analyze and design computer systems. They work with users to gather requirements and develop solutions. They also create documentation and provide training on new systems. This course can be helpful for someone who wants to become a Computer Systems Analyst because it teaches the basics of coding and computer systems. These skills can be useful for Computer Systems Analysts who need to design and implement new systems.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Systems Analyst

Database Administrator

Database Administrators manage and maintain databases. They work with users to gather requirements and develop solutions. They also create databases, manage user access, and backup and restore databases. This course can be helpful for someone who wants to become a Database Administrator because it teaches the basics of coding and databases. These skills can be useful for Database Administrators who need to manage and maintain databases.

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Web Developer

Web Developers build and maintain websites. They are responsible for the appearance and functionality of websites. Web Developers make websites responsive and interactive. They also work on the aesthetics of a website. This means that it is important for Web Developers to have an eye for design. Still other Web Developers work on the back-end of websites to manage data and user information. For someone who wants to become a Web Developer, this course on Python can be a valuable addition to a budding portfolio of skills.

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Project Manager

Project Managers plan and execute projects. They work with stakeholders to define project goals and objectives, develop project plans, and manage project resources. They also track project progress and identify and mitigate risks. This course can be helpful for someone who wants to become a Project Manager because it teaches the basics of project management. These skills can be useful for Project Managers who need to manage projects with technical components.

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Introduction to Python

Absolute Beginner

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Clear explanations for beginners

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