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 Michigan State University. If you enroll in this Try It, your learner data will not be shared with Michigan State 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

Examines Python, which is standard in industry

Develops conditional logic and decision making, which are foundational skills for programming

Builds a strong foundation in Python for beginners

Teaches using an interactive console, which ensures Python functions and code can be tested and used immediately

Covers a wide range of Python applications, including data science and web development, to provide a multifaceted 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 Try It: Intro to Python with these activities:

Read 'Python Crash Course'

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Gain a comprehensive understanding of Python by reading this beginner-friendly book that covers core concepts and practical applications

View Python Crash Course, 3rd Edition: A Hands-On,... on Amazon

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Practice Python coding exercises

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Repetition is key when learning to code, so practice writing Python code to solidify your understanding of the concepts

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Find online coding exercises or create your own
Allocate at least 30 minutes each day to practice coding

Follow Python tutorials

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Explore online tutorials to further refine your Python coding skills and knowledge

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Search for tutorials on specific Python topics you want to improve
Follow the instructions and implement the code examples
Experiment with the code and explore different possibilities

Four other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all seven activities

Participate in coding challenges

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Challenge yourself by participating in online coding competitions to improve your problem-solving abilities

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Register for online coding platforms like HackerRank or LeetCode
Select coding challenges that align with your skill level
Practice and solve the challenges within the given time constraints

Attend a Python meetup

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Connect with other Python enthusiasts, learn about industry trends, and expand your network

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Find local Python meetups or conferences
Register and attend the event
Network with other attendees, share knowledge, and learn from others

Build a Python project

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Apply your Python skills by creating a project that demonstrates your understanding and creativity

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Identify a problem or area where Python can be applied
Design and plan your project
Implement your project using Python
Test and evaluate your project

Write a Python blog post

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Share your Python knowledge and insights by writing a blog post on a topic of your expertise

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Choose a topic that you are familiar with and passionate about
Research and gather information to support your writing
Write a clear and engaging blog post, explaining Python concepts and providing examples
Share your blog post on social media or other online platforms

Career center

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

Data Scientist

**Data Scientists** use scientific methods to understand and extract insights from data, helping organizations make better decisions. Python is an essential tool for data scientists, used for tasks such as data cleaning, model building, and data visualization. This course will give you a solid foundation in the fundamentals of Python, preparing you for a successful career as a Data Scientist.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Machine Learning Engineer

**Machine Learning Engineers** design, build, and maintain machine learning models. Python is a widely used language in machine learning for tasks such as data preprocessing, model training, and model evaluation. This course will help you build a strong foundation in Python, preparing you for a career as a Machine Learning Engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Machine Learning Engineer

Data Science Manager

**Data Science Managers** oversee teams of data scientists and are responsible for the development and implementation of data science projects. Python is a critical skill for Data Science Managers, used for tasks such as project management, data analysis, and model evaluation. This course will provide you with the necessary Python skills to lead a team of data scientists.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Science Manager

Quantitative Analyst

**Quantitative Analysts** use mathematical and statistical methods to solve financial problems. Python is an important tool for Quantitative Analysts, used for tasks such as data analysis, modeling, and risk management. This course will provide you with a strong foundation in Python, giving you an advantage in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quantitative Analyst

Financial Analyst

**Financial Analysts** use statistical methods and modeling to analyze and forecast a company's financial performance, helping businesses understand financial risks. Python is widely used in finance for tasks such as financial data analysis and risk modeling. This course will provide you with a strong foundation in Python, giving you an advantage in the field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst

Web Developer

**Web Developers** create, design, and maintain websites and web applications. Python is a versatile language used in web development for tasks such as back-end web development and data visualization. This course will give you a foundation in Python, helping you develop the skills necessary for a successful career in web development.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer

Operations Research Analyst

**Operations Research Analysts** use mathematical and analytical methods to solve complex problems in business and industry. Python is commonly used by Operations Research Analysts for tasks such as data analysis, optimization modeling, and simulation. This course will give you a solid foundation in Python, helping you excel as an Operations Research Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Research Analyst

Data Engineer

**Data Engineers** design, build, and maintain data pipelines and data infrastructure. Python is a commonly used language in data engineering for tasks such as data extraction, transformation, and loading. This course will provide you with a foundation in Python, preparing you for a successful career as a Data Engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Engineer

Software Engineer

**Software Engineers** design, develop, and maintain software applications and systems. Python is a popular language in software engineering for tasks such as web development, data analysis, and machine learning. This course will teach you the basics of Python, helping you build a solid foundation for a career in software engineering.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Business Analyst

**Business Analysts** analyze business processes and data to identify inefficiencies and opportunities for improvement. Python is used by Business Analysts for tasks such as data analysis, process modeling, and stakeholder engagement. This course will give you a solid foundation in Python, helping you succeed in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Market Researcher

**Market Researchers** gather, analyze, and interpret data to understand market trends and customer behavior. Python is used by Market Researchers for tasks such as data analysis, data visualization, and predictive modeling. This course will give you a foundation in Python, helping you develop the skills needed for a successful career in Market Research.

See salaries and explore the career path for Market Researcher

Systems Analyst

**Systems Analysts** analyze and design computer systems. Python is used by Systems Analysts for tasks such as requirements gathering, system design, and testing. This course will provide you with a foundation in Python, preparing you for a successful career as a Systems Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Analyst

Product Manager

**Product Managers** oversee the development and marketing of products. Python is increasingly used by Product Managers for tasks such as data analysis, user research, and roadmapping. This course will teach you the basics of Python, providing you with an advantage in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Product Manager

Management Consultant

**Management Consultants** help organizations improve their performance. Python is used by Management Consultants for tasks such as data analysis, process mapping, and financial modeling. This course will give you a solid foundation in Python, providing you with an advantage in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Management Consultant

Data Analyst

**Data Analysts** look at large sets of raw data, create visualizations, and present their findings to help companies make informed decisions. Python is used extensively in data analysis for tasks such as gathering, cleaning, and analyzing data. This course will help you build a solid foundation in Python, making you more competitive in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst