Try It: Intro to Python from edX

Python is one of the most popular and in-demand programming languages in the world — largely because of how readable and versatile it is. If you’re interested in learning Python, this free, introductory course will demonstrate how learning to code in Python could benefit your career. No previous programming experience is required.

From analyzing large datasets to building web applications, Python can be used for a variety of projects including:

- Writing scripts for automating tasks

-Web development

-Collecting data from websites (also known as “web scraping”)

-Scientific and numeric computing

-Data analysis

-Data visualization

-Machine learning

Python is also a useful skill applicable to roles across a wide range of industries, including:

-Energy

-Finance

-Healthcare

-Marketing

-IT

-Retail

This course is an introduction to our Boot Camps, which combine data analysis and machine learning to prepare learners for careers such as data analysts, financial analysts, data scientists, and more.

This Try It is offered in support of the Coding Boot Camp and Data Analytics Boot Camp with Case Western Reserve University. If you enroll in this Try It, your learner data will not be shared with Case Western Reserve University unless you enroll in the Coding Boot Camp or Data Analytics Boot Camp.

What's inside

Learning objectives

-what python is and where it’s used.
-functions, the bits of code that tell python what to do.
-how to create and name variables.
-how to build conditional logic to automate dual-alternative decision-making.

-how to use python for advanced decision making with nested if/else statements.
-how python interacts with a console.
-how to code simple programs and use conditional statements to automate decision-making.

-what python is and where it’s used.
-functions, the bits of code that tell python what to do.
-how to create and name variables.
-how to build conditional logic to automate dual-alternative decision-making.
-how to use python for advanced decision making with nested if/else statements.
-how python interacts with a console.
-how to code simple programs and use conditional statements to automate decision-making.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Teaches Python for beginners with no previous programming knowledge

Covers a wide range of Python applications, from data analysis to web development

Provides a foundation for careers in data analysis, financial analysis, data science, and more

Introduces the basic concepts of programming, such as functions, variables, and conditional logic

Uses a hands-on approach with simple programs and coding exercises

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 Try It: Intro to Python with these activities:

Review Python basics

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Strengthen your understanding of Python's fundamental concepts and syntax. This can help you refresh your memory and ensure a solid foundation for the course.

Browse courses on Python Basics

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Review the course syllabus and identify any prerequisites or assumed knowledge.
Go through online tutorials or resources that cover Python basics.
Practice writing simple Python code to reinforce your understanding.

Organize and review course resources

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Organize, review, and become familiar with the tools and resources you will use throughout this course. This can provide you with a better understanding of what's to come and help reduce any uncertainties that might hinder your progress.

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Gather course syllabus, assignments, notes, and other resources.
Review course syllabus and identify key concepts, topics, and assignments.
Compile notes on key concepts to gain a deeper understanding.
Practice working with the tools that will be used throughout the course.

Complete coding exercises

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Reinforce your understanding of Python syntax and concepts through repetitive practice. By working through coding exercises, you can solidify your knowledge and build confidence in your abilities.

Browse courses on Python Programming

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Review Python syntax and basic concepts.
Work through coding exercises in the course materials or online resources.
Identify areas where you need improvement and focus on practicing those concepts.

Two other activities

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Help other students in the course

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Strengthen your understanding of Python by helping others. Engage with classmates in discussion forums, provide assistance with coding exercises, or participate in study groups.

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Join the course discussion forums.
Offer help to classmates who are struggling with concepts or exercises.
Form or join study groups to collaborate and discuss course material.

Participate in Python study groups

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Collaborate with peers to enhance your understanding of Python. Engage in discussions, work on projects together, and provide feedback to each other.

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Join or form study groups with classmates.
Meet regularly to discuss course material, work on assignments, and share knowledge.
Provide constructive feedback to group members to support their learning.

Career center

Learners who complete Try It: Intro to Python will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Data Analyst

Data Analysts collect, clean, and analyze data to identify patterns and trends. They use their findings to make recommendations to businesses on how to improve their operations. This course can help you develop the skills you need to become a Data Analyst, such as how to use Python for data analysis and visualization.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Web Developer

Web Developers design and develop websites. They use their knowledge of programming languages and web technologies to create websites that are both visually appealing and functional. This course can help you develop the skills you need to become a Web Developer, such as how to use Python for web development.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer

Data Scientist

Data Scientists use their knowledge of statistics, machine learning, and data analysis to extract insights from data. They use their findings to help businesses make better decisions. This course can help you develop the skills you need to become a Data Scientist, such as how to use Python for data analysis and machine learning.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Machine Learning Engineer

Machine Learning Engineers design, develop, and maintain machine learning models. They use their knowledge of machine learning algorithms and programming languages to create models that can learn from data and make predictions. This course can help you develop the skills you need to become a Machine Learning Engineer, such as how to use Python for machine learning.

See salaries and explore the career path for Machine Learning Engineer

Software Engineer

Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software applications. They use their knowledge of programming languages and software engineering principles to create software that meets the needs of users. This course can help you develop the skills you need to become a Software Engineer, such as how to use Python for software development.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Statistician

Statisticians use their knowledge of statistics and probability to analyze data and draw conclusions. They use their findings to help businesses make better decisions. This course can help you develop the skills you need to become a Statistician, such as how to use Python for statistical analysis.

See salaries and explore the career path for Statistician

Operations Research Analyst

Operations Research Analysts use their knowledge of mathematics and statistics to analyze business problems and develop solutions. They use their findings to help businesses make better decisions. This course can help you develop the skills you need to become an Operations Research Analyst, such as how to use Python for operations research.

See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Research Analyst

Business Analyst

Business Analysts use their knowledge of business and technology to analyze business processes and identify opportunities for improvement. They use their findings to make recommendations to businesses on how to improve their operations. This course can help you develop the skills you need to become a Business Analyst, such as how to use Python for data analysis and visualization.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Financial Analyst

Financial Analysts use their knowledge of finance and economics to analyze financial data and make recommendations to businesses on how to invest their money. This course can help you develop the skills you need to become a Financial Analyst, such as how to use Python for financial data analysis.

See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst

Risk Analyst

Risk Analysts use their knowledge of statistics and risk management to analyze risks and make recommendations to businesses on how to mitigate them. This course can help you develop the skills you need to become a Risk Analyst, such as how to use Python for risk analysis.

See salaries and explore the career path for Risk Analyst

Data Engineer

Data Engineers design, build, and maintain data pipelines. They use their knowledge of big data technologies and programming languages to create pipelines that can collect, clean, and store data. This course can help you develop the skills you need to become a Data Engineer, such as how to use Python for data engineering.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Engineer

Quantitative Analyst

Quantitative Analysts use their knowledge of mathematics, statistics, and programming to analyze financial data and make recommendations to businesses on how to invest their money. This course can help you develop the skills you need to become a Quantitative Analyst, such as how to use Python for financial data analysis.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quantitative Analyst

Actuary

Actuaries use their knowledge of mathematics and statistics to analyze risks and make recommendations to businesses on how to manage them. This course can help you develop the skills you need to become an Actuary, such as how to use Python for actuarial science.

See salaries and explore the career path for Actuary

Market Research Analyst

Market Research Analysts use their knowledge of statistics and research methods to analyze market data and make recommendations to businesses on how to improve their marketing strategies. This course can help you develop the skills you need to become a Market Research Analyst, such as how to use Python for market research.

See salaries and explore the career path for Market Research Analyst

Technical Writer

Technical Writers create and edit technical documentation, such as user manuals, white papers, and training materials. This course can help you develop the skills you need to become a Technical Writer, such as how to use Python for technical writing.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer