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Edouard Renard

[ Note that everything also works perfectly for Raspberry Pi 4 and older versions.

You don’t need any knowledge in programming, electronics, or anything else. To get started, you just need a computer to work from, and a Raspberry Pi board.

At the end of the course you will have a strong foundation with your Raspberry Pi, and you will be able to start your own projects in no time.

- Why this course?

Read more

[ Note that everything also works perfectly for Raspberry Pi 4 and older versions.

You don’t need any knowledge in programming, electronics, or anything else. To get started, you just need a computer to work from, and a Raspberry Pi board.

At the end of the course you will have a strong foundation with your Raspberry Pi, and you will be able to start your own projects in no time.

- Why this course?

You may be just getting started, or have already started to learn how to build projects with your Raspberry Pi. But knowing what to do first, and which path to follow can be quite hard and you may feel stuck.

The problem with most online resources for Raspberry Pi is that they focus on making you run existing programs to make you feel you’ve accomplished a lot, but in the end you’ve just copied/pasted some random code and didn’t even scratch the surface. The “why you should do that” is not involved. So, the next time you have to do something on your own, you feel stuck and too dependent on other people's code.

This course will focus on the “why” and make you become much more autonomous with your Raspberry Pi so you will be able to start your own projects without having to desperately search for code to copy/paste on the Internet. My personal goal is to make you understand enough to get started in a short period of time, and make you think as a problem solver, with engineer-level thinking skills.

- And how will we do that you may ask?

Simple:

HANDS-ON.

This course is not a course where you just download some code and run it. This is a course where you will truly understand how to write the code and work with the different Raspberry Pi functionalities.

I will take the time to explain everything, step by step, even the basic things. I will write the code with you and explain why I write what I write. With the activities and final project you will have even more opportunities to practice on your own, and you will make progress without even noticing it.

- What will you do and learn in this course?

Here’s an overview of the different topics we’ll cover:

  • Setup your Raspberry Pi and install Raspberry Pi OS without an external monitor and keyboard.

  • Get good Python 3 programming basics.

  • Work with the Raspberry Pi’s GPIO panel.

  • Use a PIR sensor to detect movement from your Pi.

  • Discover how to use a Unix terminal and the most useful command line tools.

  • Send an email from your Raspberry Pi.

  • Take photos and videos using the Raspberry Pi camera.

  • Create a web server on your Raspberry Pi with the Flask framework.

The course is divided into 15 sections to make it easier to navigate and track progress. Each section is focused on one topic. For each topic we start with hands-on explanations.

And all along the way, through the different sections, you will have many opportunities to practice (11 activities) on the most important points.

After learning all those topics, you’ll work on a final project where you can practice more with everything you’ve seen in the course. This is also a good opportunity to mix different functionalities together, which is where you can really start to create much bigger and powerful applications.

So, don’t wait any longer and start your Raspberry Pi journey with this course.

The teaching method I use is now a proven method - not because I or someone arbitrarily said so, but because of the tons of positive feedback about successful learning results I’ve received over the years with thousands of students. Here are actual reviews from students who took this course:

“Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners to Learn Raspberry Pi. A great choice for beginners. ” - Evan V.

“I feel accomplished after completing this course. The amount of knowledge gained and effort put in has been truly rewarding.” - Parul S.

“This course was a great match for me and helped me understand the GPIO interface, breadboard usage and how to send the proper python commands to control the electronic elements. Thank you. ” - Mary P.

“Total beginner and the course is getting me set up and running. What more could one ask for” - Steve C.

I don’t come from an academic background. I’m an engineer and all I’ve done is to try to solve real problems by being practical on what I need to do and to learn. I actually used Raspberry Pi to program an entire 6 axis robotic arm which is now on the market. This forced me to go to the point and focus on what’s really useful.

This experience and the lessons I’ve learned is what I want to share with you. Understanding the “why” and focusing on practicing on the key points, is, to me, one of the best ways to progress 10x faster.

My goal here is to give you more freedom when you start a project. To make you less dependent on what you may find (or not) on the Internet. To think more by yourself when building new projects.

Oh, and you also get a 30 days money-back guarantee if you’re not fully satisfied.

See you in the course. :)

Note - This course is not for you if:

  • You’re not interested in understanding what you’re doing and prefer a quick copy/paste solution.

  • You’re already an advanced Raspberry Pi user.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Master your raspberry pi, starting from scratch
  • Build a complete surveillance and alarm project with raspberry pi
  • Learn python 3 from zero, step by step
  • Install the latest version of raspberry pi os on your raspberry pi 5 (also works on older versions)
  • Use the raspberry pi’s gpios to control hardware components
  • Create a web server on your raspberry pi
  • Send emails from your raspberry pi
  • Learn how to use the terminal to get more control over your pi
  • Take pictures and videos with the raspberry pi camera
  • Start directly with the best practices
  • Learn how to be more independent when working on your future projects
  • Get more practice with hands-on lessons, 11 activities and a final project
  • Show more
  • Show less

Syllabus

What is Raspberry Pi and what can you do with it?
List of Materials for this Course - and Recommendations
How to get the most out of this course
Read more
Install Raspberry Pi OS Without any External Monitor or Keyboard
Intro
Flash the Raspberry Pi OS on your micro SD card
Boot your Raspberry Pi for the First Time
Find the Raspberry Pi’s IP address
Introduction
Welcome!
Connect to your Pi using SSH
Setup VNC to Get a Remote Access to your Raspberry Pi OS Desktop
Finish the Startup Configuration - Last Steps
Extra - Raspberry Pi Connect
Extra - not needed for first install: if you have to connect to a new WiFi
Program with Python 3 - Variables and Functions
Your first Python program - Discover the Thonny IDE
Variables
Variables - Data Types
Functions
Variables - Scope
Activity 01 - Create a Function to Concatenate 2 Uppercase Strings
Activity 01 - Solution
Program with Python 3 - Conditions, Loops, Lists
Conditions
Condition Operators
Activity 02 - Validate User Input
Activity 02 - Solution
Loops
Lists
Activity 03 - Compute Max Value Inside a List
Activity 03 - Solution
Python Modules
Program with Python 3 - Section Conclusion
Build Your First Raspberry Pi Circuit
Warning - PLEASE WATCH - How to Safely Manipulate Your Board
Understand How a Breadboard Works
The Resistors Color Code
Build your First Circuit
Control Raspberry Pi's GPIOs with Python
How GPIOs work
Create a Python Program to Make an LED Blink
Activity 04 - Set the LED’s State From User Input
Activity 04 - Solution
Add a Push Button to Your Circuit
Detect When a Button is Pressed with Python
Practice More with GPIOs
Activity 05 - Turn on the LED When the Button is Pressed
Activity 05 - Solution
Add 2 More LEDs to Your Circuit
Activity 06 - Switch the LED When Pressing the Button
Activity 06 - Solution
Activity 07 - Optimize Your Code with Lists
Activity 07 - Solution
Detect Movement with a PIR Sensor
Tune the PIR sensor
Add the PIR Sensor to Your Circuit
Detect a Movement with Python
Activity 08 - Automatic Lighting Control
Activity 08 - Solution
Use the Terminal on Your Raspberry Pi
Navigation and File System
Edit Files From the Terminal with Nano
Create, Remove, and Manipulate Files
Install and Update Software
A Few More Terminal Commands to Gain More Control Over Your Raspberry Pi
Python 3 and the Terminal
Install Python Modules
Work with Python from the Terminal
Read, Write, and Manipulate Files with Python
Activity 09 - Create a new Python Script From the Terminal
Activity 09 - Solution
Send an Email From Your Raspberry Pi
Create a new Gmail Account
Install a new Python Module: yagmail
Get the Password in Your Python Program
Send Your First Email From the Raspberry Pi
Add an Attachment to Your Email
Add Vision to Your Applications with the Raspberry Pi Camera
Plug the Camera to Your Raspberry Pi
Take a Photo From the Terminal
Take a Video From the Terminal
Take a Photo with Python
Take a Video with Python
Activity 10 - Take a Series of Pictures
Activity 10 - Solution
Create a Web Application on Your Raspberry Pi with Flask and Python
Write Your First Web Server
Add a new URL and Connect Flask with GPIOs
Activity 11 - Choose Which LED to Turn on From a Web Browser
Activity 11 - Solution
Final Project
Intro - Final Project Overview

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Provides a strong foundation in Raspberry Pi, guiding learners from initial setup to project development, which is ideal for those with no prior experience
Focuses on understanding the 'why' behind each step, which promotes independent problem-solving skills and reduces reliance on copy-pasting code
Emphasizes hands-on learning with activities and a final project, which reinforces concepts and builds practical skills for real-world applications
Covers a range of functionalities, including GPIO control, PIR sensor integration, email sending, and camera usage, which allows learners to create diverse projects
Requires learners to acquire additional hardware, such as a Raspberry Pi board, which may pose a barrier to entry for some students
Explicitly states that this course is not for advanced Raspberry Pi users, which may deter experienced individuals seeking in-depth knowledge

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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 Raspberry Pi For Beginners - 2025 Complete Course with these activities:
Review Python Basics
Reviewing Python basics will help you better understand the code used to control the Raspberry Pi and its components.
Browse courses on Python 3
Show steps
  • Review data types, variables, and operators in Python.
  • Practice writing simple Python scripts.
  • Familiarize yourself with control flow statements (if, else, loops).
Brush up on Basic Electronics Concepts
Reviewing basic electronics concepts will help you understand how to connect and control hardware components with the Raspberry Pi.
Browse courses on Electronics
Show steps
  • Review basic circuit components like resistors, LEDs, and buttons.
  • Understand the concepts of voltage, current, and resistance.
  • Learn how to read resistor color codes.
Follow a Raspberry Pi Setup Tutorial
Following a tutorial will help you get your Raspberry Pi set up and configured correctly, ensuring a smooth learning experience.
Show steps
  • Find a recent tutorial on setting up a Raspberry Pi with Raspberry Pi OS.
  • Follow the tutorial step-by-step, paying attention to detail.
  • Troubleshoot any issues that arise during the setup process.
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Practice GPIO Control with LEDs
Practicing GPIO control with LEDs will reinforce your understanding of how to interface with hardware components using Python.
Show steps
  • Write Python code to turn an LED on and off.
  • Modify the code to make the LED blink at different speeds.
  • Experiment with controlling multiple LEDs simultaneously.
Build a Simple Home Automation System
Building a home automation system will allow you to apply your knowledge of Raspberry Pi, Python, and electronics to a real-world project.
Show steps
  • Design a system to control lights or appliances using the Raspberry Pi.
  • Write Python code to interface with the GPIOs and control the hardware.
  • Create a web interface to control the system remotely.
Document Your Raspberry Pi Projects
Documenting your projects will help you solidify your understanding of the concepts and share your knowledge with others.
Show steps
  • Write a blog post or create a video tutorial about one of your Raspberry Pi projects.
  • Explain the project goals, the hardware and software used, and the steps involved.
  • Share your project on online forums or social media.

Career center

Learners who complete Raspberry Pi For Beginners - 2025 Complete Course will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Hobbyist Inventor
A Hobbyist Inventor creates new devices and solutions, often from home. This course is an excellent fit for a Hobbyist Inventor because it provides the necessary skills to make your ideas tangible. The course’s hands-on approach, combined with instruction in electronics, programming in Python, working with sensors, and even creating a web server, provides a foundation for creating a wide range of projects. The focus on independent problem-solving and understanding the 'why' empowers you to develop your ideas without relying on readily available solutions. This course will help you convert your ideas into functioning prototypes.
Internet of Things Developer
An Internet of Things Developer creates and implements solutions that connect everyday objects to the internet. This course is a great fit as it covers many fundamentals of IoT development using a Raspberry Pi. The course's focus on GPIO interactions, sensor usage, and setting up a web server on the Raspberry Pi provides a strong foundation for developing IoT applications. The hands-on experience with Python, and the course's aim of helping you think as a problem solver are directly applicable to the challenges an Internet of Things Developer faces. These practical skills, coupled with the ability to build your own projects, are crucial for success in this field.
Embedded Systems Engineer
An Embedded Systems Engineer designs, develops, and tests software and hardware for embedded systems. This course helps build a foundation in the practical application of microcontrollers, specifically the Raspberry Pi, a key tool in the field. The course's hands-on approach, covering topics like GPIO control, sensor integration, and Python programming, directly translates to the skills needed to develop embedded systems. This course provides a strong starting point for practical project work as an embedded systems engineer, as well as a strong theoretical understanding of how to use these technologies.
Hardware Engineer
A Hardware Engineer designs and develops physical components of computer systems. While this course focuses on using the Raspberry Pi, the hands on experience is valuable for any Hardware Engineer. The course's deep dive into GPIO controls, circuit building, and sensor integration provides direct hands-on practice with hardware interfacing. This course gives you a practical understanding of how hardware components work together. The projects, such as making an LED blink, using a button, and detecting motion with a PIR sensor, directly relate to the real-world applications encountered by a Hardware Engineer.
Software Developer
A Software Developer creates and maintains software applications. While this course focuses on the Raspberry Pi, it also includes a solid introduction to Python programming, a widely used language in software development. Through the course, you will learn how to write code, use functions, work with loops and lists, and implement control structures. These are fundamental skills to possess as a Software Developer. This course is useful for anyone interested in building their programming knowledge in preparation for a career as a Software Developer. The practical focus of the course will help solidify your understanding of programming principles.
Robotics Technician
A Robotics Technician builds, maintains, and repairs robotic systems. This course may be useful as it provides a solid introduction to programming and interacting with hardware like the Raspberry Pi, which is frequently used in robotics. The course's focus on practical application, through building circuits, controlling GPIOs, and working with sensors, are highly relevant to building and interacting with robotic systems. A Robotics Technician benefits from the course's coverage of Python, essential for programming various robotic components. The course may be useful in helping you learn the skills needed to work as a Robotics Technician.
Computer Science Educator
A Computer Science Educator teaches computer science concepts to students. This course provides the foundation for teaching introductory concepts in programming and hardware interaction using the Raspberry Pi platform. The course's hands-on methodology aligns well with the practical approach most effective in teaching computer science. Experience with Python, GPIOs, sensors, and web servers on the Raspberry Pi, as covered in this course, allows you to create engaging, project based lessons. The course may be useful in preparing a computer science educator to offer project-based learning opportunities.
Automation Engineer
An Automation Engineer designs and implements automated systems to improve efficiency and reduce errors in various processes. This course may be useful because it introduces the core concepts of automation by teaching how to control a range of devices with a Raspberry Pi. The course’s hands-on approach to controlling GPIOs, interacting with sensors, and using Python scripting to automate processes, gives you a valuable foundation for a career as an Automation Engineer. The practical projects in this course, such as detecting movement with a PIR sensor, helps solidify theoretical concepts and makes it easier to transfer those skills to real-world automation challenges. This course may be particularly useful in the beginning stages of this career when building foundational skills.
Makerspace Technician
A Makerspace Technician manages and maintains equipment and provides support for users of a makerspace. This course may be helpful, because it provides hands-on experience with the Raspberry Pi, a common tool in many makerspaces. The course's coverage of hardware interfacing, sensor use, and Python programming are relevant skills for a Makerspace Technician to guide others and maintain the space. The course emphasis on working independently and understanding 'why' instead of just 'how' makes you a more effective and thoughtful resource within the makerspace. This course may help you become a valuable resource in makerspace settings.
Systems Administrator
A Systems Administrator manages and maintains computer systems. This course may be useful because it covers core concepts such as setting up an operating system, using a command line interface, and managing files and software. The practice in this course with Raspberry Pi OS, using the Unix terminal, and installing Python Modules in a terminal, are skills directly transferable to many Systems Administrator tasks. The course may be useful to familiarize you with the fundamentals of managing computer systems, particularly in environments that use Linux-based systems.
Research Assistant
A Research Assistant supports research projects with data collection, analysis, and experimentation. The Raspberry Pi skills taught in this course can be directly applied to laboratory and research settings, especially within the fields of robotics or embedded systems. The course's coverage of GPIO control, sensor integration, and Python programming would be valuable in the development of tools and data collection systems for research. This course may be particularly useful if your research requires custom built hardware or automated data collection processes. The emphasis on understanding fundamental principles will translate into more thorough methods in research settings.
Quality Assurance Analyst
A Quality Assurance Analyst tests software and systems to ensure they meet standards. This course may be useful as it provides insight into how systems are built, especially embedded systems using a Raspberry Pi. Learning how to write code, handle hardware components, and create test setups helps develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are useful for testing. This course may be helpful in building an understanding of common technical issues and processes, making you a more effective QA analyst.
Technology Consultant
A Technology Consultant advises clients on the best use of technology to meet their business goals. This course provides a foundation in electronics, embedded systems, and software, which is valuable to understand technology solutions. The course’s deep dive into Raspberry Pi, including GPIO interactions, sensor technology, and Python programming, can be leveraged to understand practical applications of technology. This course may be useful in gaining hands-on experience with technology that can then be translated into informed recommendations for Technology Consulting clients.
Data Analyst
A Data Analyst gathers, analyzes, and interprets data. This course may be useful in developing relevant skills, particularly in programming with Python, which is heavily used in data analysis. Although this course does not focus directly on data analysis, it provides a practical introduction to coding, particularly in scripting for automation and data collection. Data analysts often must build custom tools. This course may be helpful in understanding how to build those tools, and could be particularly relevant if the analyst focuses on data from hardware applications.
Technical Writer
A Technical Writer creates documentation for technical products and processes. This course may be useful in giving you hands-on experience for writing clear, accurate documentation. Understanding the practical side of using the Raspberry Pi, along with sensors, and software, is valuable when creating guides, manuals, and tutorials for audiences of various skill levels. This course may be useful in providing insights into common user issues and the practical steps required to use the technology being documented. It can also provide real experience with technologies for more effective writing.

Reading list

We haven't picked any books for this reading list yet.
Provides a collection of projects for building IoT (Internet of Things) devices using Raspberry Pi. It covers topics like connecting to Wi-Fi, controlling devices over the Internet, and sending data to the cloud. It great resource for anyone interested in developing IoT applications using Raspberry Pi.
Teaches readers how to build and program robots using Raspberry Pi. It covers topics like motor control, sensor integration, and path planning. It includes several hands-on projects that guide readers through building different types of robots.
This comprehensive guide provides an in-depth overview of Raspberry Pi, including its hardware, software, and various applications. It covers advanced topics like overclocking, cluster computing, and creating custom kernels. It valuable resource for experienced users looking to maximize the potential of Raspberry Pi.
This accessible guide is written for complete beginners and provides a clear and concise introduction to Raspberry Pi. It covers basic concepts like what Raspberry Pi is, how to set it up, and how to use it for various projects.
This beginner-friendly book provides a step-by-step guide to setting up and using Raspberry Pi. It covers essential topics like installing software, connecting peripherals, and troubleshooting common issues. It great resource for students and anyone new to Raspberry Pi.
This official guide from the Raspberry Pi Foundation provides a comprehensive overview of the Raspberry Pi computer, including its hardware, software, and various applications. It is an ideal starting point for beginners looking to get up and running with Raspberry Pi.
This practical guide offers a collection of over 200 recipes for using Raspberry Pi in various projects, from basic tasks like setting up the operating system to advanced projects like building a home automation system. It valuable resource for hobbyists and makers looking to explore the capabilities of Raspberry Pi.
Is specifically written for educators and provides guidance on using Raspberry Pi in the classroom. It covers topics like setting up Raspberry Pi, developing lesson plans, and assessing student learning. It valuable resource for teachers looking to incorporate Raspberry Pi into their curriculum.
This project-based book provides a collection of 25 fun and creative projects for using Raspberry Pi. It covers topics like building a retro gaming console, creating a motion-activated security camera, and controlling home appliances with your voice. It great resource for makers and hobbyists looking for inspiration.
Is dedicated to the Raspberry Pi Pico, which microcontroller board based on the RP2040 chip. It provides a comprehensive overview of the Raspberry Pi Pico, including its hardware, software, and applications. It great resource for anyone looking to get started with the Raspberry Pi Pico.
Focuses on interfacing Raspberry Pi with external devices and sensors. It covers topics like analog and digital input/output, interfacing with sensors, and controlling motors. It valuable resource for anyone looking to use Raspberry Pi for real-world applications.
Focuses on teaching readers how to use the Raspberry Pi's GPIO (General Purpose Input/Output) pins to control external devices and sensors. It provides a comprehensive overview of GPIO programming with Python and includes several hands-on projects.
Comprehensive guide to the Python 3 language. It covers all the basics of the language, as well as some more advanced topics, such as metaprogramming and concurrency. The book is written in a clear and concise style, and it is full of helpful examples and exercises.
Fast-paced introduction to Python 3. It covers all the basics of the language, as well as some more advanced topics, such as object-oriented programming and data science. The book is written in a clear and concise style, and it is full of helpful examples and exercises.
Comprehensive guide to using Python 3 for deep learning. It covers all the basics of deep learning, as well as some more advanced topics, such as convolutional neural networks and recurrent neural networks. The book is written in a clear and concise style, and it is full of helpful examples and exercises.
Comprehensive guide to using Python 3 for machine learning. It covers all the basics of machine learning, as well as some more advanced topics, such as deep learning and natural language processing. The book is written in a clear and concise style, and it is full of helpful examples and exercises.
Comprehensive guide to using Python 3 for data analysis. It covers all the basics of data analysis, as well as some more advanced topics, such as machine learning and deep learning. The book is written in a clear and concise style, and it is full of helpful examples and exercises.
Practical guide to using Python 3 to automate everyday tasks. It covers a wide range of topics, from web scraping to data analysis. The book is written in a clear and concise style, and it is full of helpful examples and exercises.
Collection of over 500 recipes for solving common programming problems in Python 3. The recipes are organized by topic, and they cover a wide range of topics, from data manipulation to web development. The book is written in a clear and concise style, and it is full of helpful examples and exercises.
Beginner-friendly introduction to Python 3. It covers all the basics of the language, including data types, variables, control flow, and functions. The book is written in a clear and concise style, and it is full of helpful examples and exercises.

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