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Adrian Wiech

Welcome. My name's Adrian and I'm a professional Software Developer. If you already know basic Python and want to take another step with your skills, then you've just found an excellent course for that. Along the way, you will also create three practical Python programs.

According to statistics, Python is in the top 3 programming languages all around the world. It is much easier and quicker to learn that most other languages. At the same time, it's extremely popular among software developers, data analysts and other IT professions. All of this makes it an excellent choice for your first programming language.

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Welcome. My name's Adrian and I'm a professional Software Developer. If you already know basic Python and want to take another step with your skills, then you've just found an excellent course for that. Along the way, you will also create three practical Python programs.

According to statistics, Python is in the top 3 programming languages all around the world. It is much easier and quicker to learn that most other languages. At the same time, it's extremely popular among software developers, data analysts and other IT professions. All of this makes it an excellent choice for your first programming language.

You will need basic Python skills (entry-level PCEP exam knowledge) to start this course. I'll show you how to install Python and all the necessary tools. You will code along with me andhave a chance to write three practical programs to practice your skills.

There are 5 exam blocks when you sit the PCAP exam. Consequently, this course has 5 main modules, each one focusing on a different exam block. At the end of each module, you'll have a chance to solve an exam quiz to check your skills.

This course also comes with a mock PCAP exam at the very end. It will have the same format as your actual exam, with the same passing grade and time limit. It will show you what kinds of questions you can expect.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Take the next step in python: from beginner to intermediate level
  • Prepare for pcap-31-0x exam
  • Get intermediate python skills for software development, data science, machine learning etc.
  • Apply for entry-level python jobs
  • Code along with me for real-life programming practice
  • Create three practical programs

Syllabus

Introduction
What is the PCAP certificate?
Who is this course for?
What should you already know?
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Prepares learners for the PCAP-31-0x exam, which can help them demonstrate proficiency and increase their career prospects in software development and data analysis
Requires basic Python skills, specifically entry-level PCEP exam knowledge, suggesting it builds upon existing foundations rather than starting from absolute scratch
Includes mini-projects such as a random password generator and a rock-paper-scissors game, offering hands-on experience and practical application of learned concepts
Covers object-oriented programming (OOP) principles, which are essential for building scalable and maintainable software applications in Python and other languages
Includes a mock PCAP exam with the same format, passing grade, and time limit as the actual exam, providing valuable practice and familiarization for test-takers
Uses Anaconda, a distribution of Python, for tool installation, which simplifies package management and environment setup for data science and software development projects

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Reviews summary

Pcap certification exam preparation

According to learners, this course is a highly effective tool for preparing for the PCAP certification exam, building upon basic Python knowledge. Students appreciate the clear structure that mirrors the exam syllabus and find the mock exam particularly useful for gauging their readiness. While some find the pace challenging, many feel it provides a solid intermediate foundation. The course is seen as a valuable investment for those aiming for certification and career advancement in Python.
Includes hands-on coding and projects.
"Coding along with the instructor and building the mini-projects helped solidify my understanding."
"The practical examples and projects made the concepts much clearer than just theoretical explanations."
"I enjoyed the hands-on coding exercises that reinforced the material."
Moves learners from beginner to intermediate.
"This course successfully took my basic Python knowledge to the next level, covering intermediate concepts like OOP and exceptions thoroughly."
"I feel much more confident in my intermediate Python skills after completing this program."
"It's a great bridge between knowing the basics and being ready for more advanced topics or professional roles."
Content follows the exam syllabus logically.
"The course structure, following the 5 exam blocks, made it easy to navigate and focus my study."
"I liked how the modules directly mapped to the PCAP syllabus areas; it felt very organized."
"The course is broken down into manageable sections which helps in digesting complex topics."
Realistic mock exam helps assess readiness.
"The mock PCAP exam at the end was spot on and very representative of the actual test format and difficulty."
"Taking the mock exam highlighted areas I needed to review further before the real test."
"I appreciated having a full mock exam to practice under timed conditions."
"The practice quizzes after each section and the final mock exam were invaluable."
Excellent preparation for the PCAP exam.
"I found this course extremely helpful in preparing for the PCAP-31-0x exam. It covers all the topics well."
"This course aligns perfectly with the PCAP exam objectives and gave me the confidence I needed."
"Passed the PCAP exam thanks to the comprehensive coverage and practice materials in this course."
"It's a fantastic resource for anyone serious about getting their PCAP certification."
Basic Python knowledge is essential.
"You definitely need to have the PCEP level knowledge before starting this; it moves quickly assuming you do."
"Found it challenging at times because my 'basic' Python wasn't quite enough; make sure you meet the prerequisites."
"This is not a beginner course; come prepared with foundational Python understanding."

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 PCAP: Pass Certified Associate in Python Programming with these activities:
Review Basic Python Syntax
Strengthen your understanding of fundamental Python syntax, including data types, operators, and control flow statements, to ensure a solid foundation for the more advanced topics covered in the PCAP course.
Browse courses on Python Syntax
Show steps
  • Review Python data types (integers, floats, strings, booleans).
  • Practice using operators (arithmetic, comparison, logical).
  • Write simple programs using if/else statements and loops.
Review 'Python Crash Course'
Reinforce your understanding of Python fundamentals and gain practical experience through hands-on projects, preparing you for the more advanced topics in the PCAP course.
Show steps
  • Read the chapters covering basic Python syntax and data structures.
  • Complete the exercises and projects related to the course topics.
  • Experiment with the code examples and modify them to deepen your understanding.
Practice String Manipulation Exercises
Sharpen your string manipulation skills by completing coding exercises that involve searching, joining, splitting, and sorting strings, which are essential for the PCAP exam and real-world Python programming.
Show steps
  • Solve string manipulation problems on platforms like HackerRank or LeetCode.
  • Focus on exercises that involve string searching, splitting, and joining.
  • Analyze the time and space complexity of your solutions.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Create a Cheat Sheet for Python Modules
Consolidate your knowledge of Python modules by creating a cheat sheet that summarizes the key functions and classes in the math, random, and platform modules, aiding in quick reference during the course and exam.
Show steps
  • Review the documentation for the math, random, and platform modules.
  • Summarize the most important functions and classes in each module.
  • Organize the cheat sheet for easy reference.
Build a Simple Text-Based Game
Apply your object-oriented programming skills by building a text-based game like Tic-Tac-Toe or Hangman, reinforcing concepts such as classes, inheritance, and exception handling.
Show steps
  • Design the game's classes and their relationships.
  • Implement the game logic using OOP principles.
  • Handle user input and game state using exceptions.
  • Test and debug the game thoroughly.
Dive into 'Fluent Python'
Expand your knowledge of advanced Python concepts and best practices, such as data structures, object-oriented design, and concurrency, to become a more proficient Python programmer.
Show steps
  • Read the chapters covering advanced data structures and object-oriented features.
  • Experiment with the code examples and try to apply them to your own projects.
  • Focus on understanding the underlying principles and design patterns.
Help Others on Python Forums
Reinforce your understanding of Python concepts by helping other learners on online forums like Stack Overflow or Reddit, explaining solutions and providing guidance.
Show steps
  • Browse Python-related forums for questions from other learners.
  • Answer questions clearly and concisely, providing code examples when necessary.
  • Explain the reasoning behind your solutions and offer helpful tips.

Career center

Learners who complete Python PCAP: Pass Certified Associate in Python Programming will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Python Programmer
A Python Programmer writes and debugs code using the Python programming language. This course is a direct fit for those wanting to become a Python programmer as it aims to take learners from beginner to intermediate Python skills. The course covers key programming concepts such as modules, packages, object oriented programming, and exception handling. Moreover, the practical projects and quizzes in the course allow a Python programmer to apply what they've learned, and the mock exam simulates the conditions of the PCAP certification exam.
Software Developer
A Software Developer designs, develops, and maintains software applications. This course is directly applicable as it builds upon basic Python skills, taking them to an intermediate level and preparing learners for the PCAP certification. A key offering is the opportunity to create three practical Python programs, a very useful skill for a software developer. This course's focus on modules, packages, object oriented programming, and exception handling will help a software developer write better code. The mock exam is particularly valuable to help prepare for real software challenges.
Back-End Developer
A Back End Developer is responsible for server-side logic and database management. This course helps a back end developer by providing them with the necessary Python skills to build server-side components. The course's syllabus includes core programming concepts like object oriented programming, file handling and exception handling, and these are crucial for back end development. Also, the course's focus on modules and packages aids in code organization and reusability.
Full-Stack Developer
A Full Stack Developer works on both the front end and back end of web applications. This course is useful for a full stack developer because it enhances their Python programming skills, particularly those related to server-side development. The course covers modules, packages, object oriented programming, and exception handling, all of which are useful to a full stack developer. The practical projects included in the course will be of great benefit as they encourage hands-on programming practice.
Software Test Engineer
A Software Test Engineer writes and executes test cases to ensure software quality. This course is useful as it provides a strong foundation in Python programming, which is often used for test automation. The course includes object oriented programming, exception handling, and file handling, enabling a software test engineer to write sophisticated test scripts. The practical projects and module quizzes also help a software test engineer hone their Python skills.
Data Analyst
A Data Analyst interprets and analyzes data to identify trends and insights. This course may be helpful as it enhances Python programming skills and provides an understanding of modules, packages, and file handling which are essential for data-related tasks. The course also covers object oriented programming, which improves a data analyst's ability to manage and manipulate data, as well as the ability to create reusable code. The course may be particularly useful due to its inclusion of working with files, which is a routine task when performing data analysis.
Data Scientist
A Data Scientist uses statistical methods and algorithms to extract insights from data. This course may be useful for a data scientist as it provides intermediate level Python programming skills. The course will enhance a data scientist's proficiency in using Python for data manipulation, analysis, and visualization. Concepts like modules, packages, file handling, and object oriented programming are all relevant to a data scientist's workflow.
Machine Learning Engineer
A Machine Learning Engineer builds and implements machine learning models. This course may be useful as it develops intermediate Python skills, including object oriented programming, exception handling, and file handling, all of which are needed for machine learning. The course's emphasis on creating practical Python programs makes it relevant to the iterative nature of machine learning development. The topics covered in this course may help a machine learning engineer in data preprocessing and model development.
Research Scientist
A Research Scientist conducts research and experiments to advance knowledge in a particular field. This course may be helpful for a research scientist who uses computational methods and data analysis. The course includes modules, packages, and file handling, all of which are useful to a research scientist. This course also builds intermediate Python programming skills, and the mock PCAP exam will help ensure that the research scientist is prepared to use Python in their research.
Automation Engineer
An Automation Engineer designs, develops, and implements automated systems. This course may be helpful because it enhances Python programming skills, which are frequently used in automation. The course content on modules, packages, and file handling can benefit an automation engineer who needs to write scripts for various tasks. This course shows students how to build practical programs, which is a valuable skill in automation.
Game Developer
A Game Developer designs and creates video games. This course may be helpful for a game developer who uses Python for scripting and prototyping. The course emphasizes modules, packages, and object oriented programming, all of which are important for game development. This course is also useful because it includes practical projects, which reflect the hands-on nature of game development.
Quantitative Analyst
A Quantitative Analyst applies mathematical and statistical models to solve financial problems. This course may be helpful as it provides intermediate Python programming skills. Python is used in quantitative finance for data analysis, model development, and simulation. Although this course does not focus on finance, concepts such as modules, packages, and file handling within the course may benefit a quantitative analyst.
Database Administrator
A Database Administrator manages and maintains databases. This course may be helpful as it provides intermediate Python programming skills. A database administrator will often use scripting for tasks related to database maintenance and automation. Python is often selected for database tasks, so familiarity with core Python concepts such as modules, packages, and file handling will be helpful.
Technical Writer
A Technical Writer creates documentation and user guides for software and technical products. This course may be helpful as it provides a strong Python background, which is useful for creating developer documentation and technical content. By understanding the concepts covered, a technical writer can create accurate and understandable documentation. The technical writer should find the practical aspects of the course particularly useful.
IT Support Specialist
An IT Support Specialist provides technical assistance to computer users. This course may be useful because it introduces core concepts in Python programming, which can be helpful for automating some IT tasks. While not directly related, the course can improve a problem solving mindset. By the end of the course, an IT Support Specialist may improve efficiency by writing Python scripts for various tasks.

Reading list

We've selected two 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 PCAP: Pass Certified Associate in Python Programming.
Python Crash Course is an excellent resource for solidifying basic Python skills. It provides a project-based approach to learning, which complements the practical programs created in the PCAP course. is particularly helpful for those who need a refresher on fundamental concepts or want to gain more hands-on experience. It is commonly used as a textbook for introductory Python courses.
Fluent Python more advanced book that delves into Python's core features and best practices. It is valuable as additional reading for those who want to deepen their understanding of Python's object model, data structures, and concurrency features. While not essential for the PCAP exam, it provides a broader perspective on Python programming.

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