We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.

Python Data Representations

This course will continue the introduction to Python programming that started with Python Programming Essentials. We'll learn about different data representations, including strings, lists, and tuples, that form the core of all Python programs. We will also teach you how to access files, which will allow you to store and retrieve data within your programs. These concepts and skills will help you to manipulate data and write more complex Python programs.

By the end of the course, you will be able to write Python programs that can manipulate data stored in files. This will extend your Python programming expertise, enabling you to write a wide range of scripts using Python

This course uses Python 3. While most Python programs continue to use Python 2, Python 3 is the future of the Python programming language. This course introduces basic desktop Python development environments, allowing you to run Python programs directly on your computer. This choice enables a smooth transition from online development environments.

Enroll now

Or subscribe to Coursera Plus

And get unlimited access to Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Strings

This module will teach you about Python's string data type and its capabilities. Strings are used to represent text within programs.

Basics of Lists

This module will teach you the basics of Python's list data type. Lists are used to hold a sequence of data within programs.

List Manipulation

This module will dive further into the use of lists. You will learn how about mutating the contents of a list and the implications of doing so.

File Access

This module will teach you how to access files in Python.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Suitable for learners with experience in computer programming who want to develop their Python programming skills

Provides a foundation of basic Python programming concepts, making it accessible to learners with minimal or no prior knowledge of the language

Emphasizes practical application of Python in data manipulation, providing valuable skills for data analysis and management tasks

Taught by experienced instructors with expertise in Python programming and software development, ensuring high-quality instruction

Uses Python 3, the latest version of the Python programming language, preparing learners for current industry trends and best practices

Covers core data structures and operations, such as strings, lists, and tuples, providing a solid foundation for building more complex Python programs

Save this course

Save Python Data Representations to your list so you can find it easily later:

Save

Reviews summary

Highly rated python data structures course

Learners say this course is well received and an engaging learning experience, especially for beginners. It largely positive reviews mention that concepts are clearly explained and reinforced with challenging quizzes, assignments, and projects. Students appreciate the combination of knowledgeable instructors, well-structured lessons, and supportive discussion forums. However, some learners note that the final project can be difficult for beginners and may require additional resources.

Discussion forums are supportive and helpful.

"If you feel stuck on something, you might find some similar stories already sorted in forum or ask for personalised help."

"Very good course. I'd already done An Introduction to Interactive Programming in Python - so in some ways this is going over old ground."

"Thank you, I feel empowered to proceed with my Python journey!"

Instructors are knowledgeable and engaging.

"Scott Rixnew and Joe Warren did a great job in the lectures."

"The professors are just great!"

"Very good explanations, and great python practice questions."

Concepts are clearly explained and easy to understand.

"Very clear explanations, great assignments!"

"This course was awesome and challenging."

"This is a good course where you learn many interesting things related to the types of formats in python."

Assignments and projects are challenging and reinforce learning.

"Great course. Exercises are best so far I have ever seen on a online course."

"challenging question set helped me to find my backlogs... coding is always fun"

"The practice project for week three I didn't like, but the content covered in this course and the excellent teaching basically made up for it."

Final project can be difficult for beginners.

"The final project is too difficult while the course lecture content is less than what the final project needs."

"The course starts off easy. The professors are very nice and teach us the basics but the final assignment is extremely tough."

"Final Project is little bit difficult , apart from that this course is awesome..."

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 Data Representations with these activities:

Read 'Python Programming: An Introduction to Computer Science'

Show steps

Introduce yourself to Python and to some of the basics of the course

View Python Programming: An Introduction to Computer... on Amazon

Show steps

Read Chapters 1-3
Complete 3 practice exercises from Chapters 1-3

Python study group

Show steps

Collaborate with other learners to enhance your understanding.

Browse courses on Python

Show steps

Find other learners who are taking the same course
Meet regularly to discuss the course material and work on projects together

Attend a Python workshop

Show steps

Expand your knowledge by attending a Python workshop.

Browse courses on Python

Show steps

Find a Python workshop that is relevant to your interests
Attend the workshop and actively participate in the activities

Five other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all eight activities

Python programming drills

Show steps

Practice Python programming.

Browse courses on Python

Show steps

Complete 10 easy problems on HackerRank
Write a Python program to print a multiplication table

Mentor a beginner Python learner

Show steps

Enhance your understanding by teaching Python to a beginner.

Browse courses on Python

Show steps

Find a beginner who is interested in learning Python
Meet regularly to teach them the basics of Python and help them with their projects

Python programming tutorial

Show steps

Cement your understanding of Python by teaching it to someone else.

Browse courses on Python

Show steps

Choose a topic from the course
Create a tutorial explaining the topic in detail
Share your tutorial with a friend or online community

Contribute to an open-source Python project

Show steps

Gain practical experience by contributing to the Python community.

Browse courses on Python

Show steps

Find an open-source Python project that you are interested in
Read the project documentation and contribute code or documentation

Python project: Develop a simple application

Show steps

Apply your Python skills to create something useful.

Browse courses on Python

Show steps

Come up with an idea for a simple Python application
Design and implement your application
Test and refine your application

Career center

Learners who complete Python Data Representations will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Data Scientist

A Data Scientist uses data to extract knowledge from structured and unstructured data, leveraging techniques from statistics and computer science, particularly machine learning and data mining. They apply these skills to solve business problems, automate processes, and build data-driven products. Typically requiring a master's or Ph.D. degree, this role is well-suited for those who want to work with large amounts of data and have strong analytical skills. The concepts in this course, such as data structures, file access, and data manipulation, provide a solid foundation for working with data in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Data Analyst

A Data Analyst collects, cleans, and analyzes data to identify trends and patterns. They use these insights to make recommendations and inform decision-making. Many Data Analysts hold a bachelor's degree and have a foundational understanding of statistics, programming, and data analysis tools. This course would be helpful for those wanting to enter this field as it will introduce them to important data structures and data manipulation techniques.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Software Engineer

Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software applications. They use their programming skills to create software that meets the needs of users. Most Software Engineers have at least a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. The concepts taught in this course, such as data structures, file access, and data manipulation, are essential for writing robust and efficient software applications.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Database Administrator

A Database Administrator is responsible for the management and maintenance of databases. This includes tasks such as creating and modifying databases, managing user access, and ensuring data integrity. Database Administrators typically have a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field, and they may also have specialized training or certification in database management. The concepts taught in this course, such as data structures, file access, and data manipulation, are essential for understanding how databases work and how to manage them effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator

Business Intelligence Analyst

A Business Intelligence Analyst uses data to improve business processes and decision-making. They work with stakeholders to identify data needs, collect data, and analyze data to provide insights. Business Intelligence Analysts typically have a bachelor's degree in business, computer science, or a related field, and they often have experience in data analysis and data mining. The concepts taught in this course, such as data structures, file access, and data manipulation, are essential for understanding how to collect, clean, and analyze data in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Intelligence Analyst

Statistician

A Statistician uses statistical methods to collect, analyze, interpret, and present data. They work in a variety of fields, such as healthcare, finance, and education. Statisticians typically have a master's or Ph.D. degree in statistics or a related field. The concepts taught in this course, such as data structures, file access, and data manipulation, are essential for understanding how to collect, clean, and analyze data in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Statistician

Data Engineer

A Data Engineer builds and maintains data pipelines, ensuring that data is available for analysis and decision-making. They work with data scientists, data analysts, and other stakeholders to understand data needs and develop solutions to meet those needs. Data Engineers typically have a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field, and they often have experience in data management and data engineering. The concepts taught in this course, such as data structures, file access, and data manipulation, are essential for understanding how to build and maintain data pipelines.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Engineer

Financial Analyst

A Financial Analyst uses financial data to make investment recommendations and inform business decisions. They work in a variety of fields, such as banking,投资咨询, and corporate finance. Financial Analysts typically have a bachelor's degree in finance, economics, or a related field, and they often have specialized training or certification in financial analysis. The concepts taught in this course, such as data structures, file access, and data manipulation, are essential for understanding how to collect, clean, and analyze data in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst

Actuary

An Actuary uses mathematical and statistical methods to assess risk and uncertainty. They work in a variety of fields, such as insurance, finance, and consulting. Actuaries typically have a bachelor's degree in mathematics, statistics, or a related field, and they often have specialized training or certification in actuarial science. The concepts taught in this course, such as data structures, file access, and data manipulation, are essential for understanding how to collect, clean, and analyze data in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Actuary

Operations Research Analyst

An Operations Research Analyst uses mathematical and analytical methods to improve business processes and operations. They work in a variety of fields, such as manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare. Operations Research Analysts typically have a bachelor's degree in operations research, industrial engineering, or a related field. The concepts taught in this course, such as data structures, file access, and data manipulation, are essential for understanding how to collect, clean, and analyze data in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Research Analyst

Risk Manager

A Risk Manager identifies, assesses, and manages risks that could affect an organization. They work in a variety of fields, such as finance, insurance, and healthcare. Risk Managers typically have a bachelor's degree in risk management, finance, or a related field. The concepts taught in this course, such as data structures, file access, and data manipulation, are essential for understanding how to collect, clean, and analyze data in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Risk Manager

Market Researcher

A Market Researcher conducts research to understand consumer behavior and market trends. They work in a variety of fields, such as marketing, advertising, and product development. Market Researchers typically have a bachelor's degree in marketing, business, or a related field, and they often have experience in research methods and data analysis. The concepts taught in this course, such as data structures, file access, and data manipulation, are essential for understanding how to collect, clean, and analyze data in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Market Researcher

Data Visualization Specialist

A Data Visualization Specialist creates visual representations of data. They work in a variety of fields, such as marketing, journalism, and data analysis. Data Visualization Specialists typically have a bachelor's degree in computer science, design, or a related field. The concepts taught in this course, such as data structures, file access, and data manipulation, are essential for understanding how to collect, clean, and analyze data in this role.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Visualization Specialist

Computer Programmer

A Computer Programmer writes and maintains computer code. They work in a variety of fields, such as software development, web development, and data analysis. Computer Programmers typically have a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. The concepts taught in this course, such as data structures, file access, and data manipulation, are essential for understanding how to write and maintain computer code.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Programmer

Web Developer

A Web Developer designs and develops websites and web applications. They work in a variety of fields, such as software development, web design, and marketing. Web Developers typically have a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. The concepts taught in this course, such as data structures, file access, and data manipulation, are essential for understanding how to build and maintain websites and web applications.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer

Reading list

We've selected 15 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 Data Representations.

Learning Python

Save

Offers a comprehensive and up-to-date guide to Python programming, covering data structures, algorithms, and object-oriented programming, providing a solid foundation for the course.

Python Data Representations

What's inside

Syllabus

Good to know

Save this course

Reviews summary

Highly rated python data structures course

Activities

Career center

Reading list

Share

Similar courses