How to Use Python: Tutorial for Beginners

Welcome to CodeGym's beginner-friendly tutorial on how to use Python. In just a few minutes, you will learn how to download and install Python and prepare to write your first lines of code. In addition, we’ll recommend the set of tools you need while learning to code in Python. According to the StackOverflow survey, Python is the first choice for newbie learners and third among the most commonly used programming languages. The reasons for this are apparent. Python's versatility allows us to explore various fields like web development, data science, and automation. Plus, it has a simple syntax, which is easy to learn and read, reducing the initial learning curve. Starting your programming journey can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry — we’ve got you covered. This clear, step-by-step guide is designed to help newbies easily dive into Python.

How to Download Python

Now, let’s get started! The first thing you need to do is download the latest version of Python to your computer. Follow these easy steps:

1. Go to the Python Website: Open your browser and type in www.python.org. This is the official site where you can download Python safely.
2. Find the Downloads Section: Once on the site, look for the "Downloads" tab at the top of the page. Click on it.
3. Choose Your Operating System: You'll see options for different operating systems, such as Windows, macOS, and Linux. Click on the one that matches the operating system on your computer.
4. Download the Installer: Click the big yellow button that says "Download Python 3.x.x" (the x's represent the latest version). Your download should start automatically.

How to Install Python

Once the download is completed, follow these steps:

1. Run the Installer: Once the download finishes, find the file in your downloads folder and double-click it to open the installer.
2. Install Python: In the installer, check the box "Add Python to PATH." This is important. Then, click "Install Now."
3. Verify Installation: After the installation completes, open a Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (macOS/Linux) and type python --version. You should see the Python version number displayed.

And that’s it! You’ve successfully installed Python on your computer. Now, you’re ready to start coding. You’ll need a special program — a coding editor for full-fledged programming. However, you can start with the pre-installed Python program to give it a try.

Running Your First Line of Code

Let's run your first line of code. It's super simple! Just follow these steps:

1. Open IDLE: When you installed Python, it came with a program called IDLE, an editor for writing and running Python code. To open IDLE, search for "IDLE" in your computer’s search bar and click on it.
2. Open a New File: In IDLE, go to the "File" menu and click "New File." This opens a new window where you can write your code.
3. Write Your Code: Type the following line of code in the new file:
print("Hello, world!")

This line itself is your first program! What does it do? This program will display the text: Hello, world!

It's pretty obvious, but just in case, here's the explanation: to display some text on the screen, you need to: a) enclose it in double quotes; b) use the print() command — just like in the example above.
4. Save Your File: Go to the "File" menu and click "Save As." Save your file with a name you’ll remember, like first_code.py.
5. Run Your Code: Go to the "Run" menu in the new file window and click "Run Module." Or, you can just press F5 on your keyboard.
6. See the Output: The Python Shell window will pop up, showing the output of your code. You should see "Hello, world!" displayed.

Congratulations! You’ve just run your first line of code in Python.

What Tools Do You Need to Start Coding in Python

As mentioned earlier, you can write a simple one-command program as soon as you download and install Python. However, as soon as you start learning this language, you should get familiar with other tools that every Python software engineer uses daily. Here’s what your complete starter pack should look like:

1. Python Interpreter: The first thing you need is Python itself. You can download it from www.python.org. This is the software that understands and runs your Python code.
2. IDLE: When you download Python, it comes with IDLE, a basic editor where you can write and run your code. It’s perfect for beginners!
3. Visual Studio Code (VS Code): As you get more comfortable, you might want a more powerful editor. VS Code is a free, popular code editor with lots of features to help you code better. OR:
4. PyCharm: Another great editor is PyCharm. It’s specifically designed for Python and comes with many features that make coding easier. There’s a free version called the Community Edition.
5. Jupyter Notebook: If you like to see your code and results all in one place, try Jupyter Notebook. It’s great for experimenting with code and data.
6. Pip: Pip is a tool that helps you install other useful Python packages. It comes with Python, so you don’t need to download it separately. You’ll use it to add extra tools to your Python setup.
7. Git: To save your code and collaborate with others, Git is essential. It’s a version control system that helps you keep track of changes in your code.

These tools will perfectly prepare you for your Python learning experience. Start simple with Python and IDLE, then explore other tools as you gain confidence. To get faster into coding and become confident, follow these hints:

• Practice Consistently. The best way to learn Python is through regular practice. Try to code a little bit every day, even if it's just for 30 minutes. This helps reinforce what you've learned and builds a solid foundation.
• Spend time reading other people's code. This will expose you to different coding styles and best practices. Websites like GitHub are great places to find open-source projects. Try to understand how the code works, ask questions, or seek explanations for parts you find challenging.
• Utilize Python's Libraries. Python's strength lies in its extensive libraries and frameworks. Learn how to use libraries like NumPy for numerical operations, Pandas for data manipulation, and matplotlib for data visualization.

Wrap up

Learning Python programming is a smart choice for many reasons. Its easy-to-understand syntax allows you to start learning quickly, making coding accessible and fun. Python's flexibility means you can use it in various fields like web development, data science, or automating tasks at work. Python has a strong community, offering countless tutorials, forums, and resources to support you. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to advance your skills, there’s always help available. For most beginners, it takes several months to learn Python programming fundamentals if you dedicate a few hours daily. With consistent practice, you'll master advanced programming concepts in about 4-8 months. To make your learning journey smoother, enroll in a well-structured course designed for beginners. A good course provides practice, projects, and mentor support to help you understand concepts quickly and effectively. If you're serious about diving into Python, choose a course that challenges and motivates you, ensuring you gain the applicable knowledge and collect an impressive portfolio of coding projects. Start learning today with CodeGym. We know from experience that you don’t need a tech background to become a great programmer. You simply need the right way of learning.