Introduction to Programming with Python

Overview

• Presenter: Gary Sims
• Topic: Learning to program using Python

Downloading Python on Windows

1. Go to python.org
2. Click on "Downloads" in the menu bar
3. Choose between:
   • Python 3.6.5 (recommended)
   • Python 2.7.14 (older version, for legacy systems)
4. Download the .exe file
5. Run the installer to install Python

Setting Up Python IDLE

• Look for the IDLE program after installation:
  • Either on the desktop or in the Start Menu
• Launch IDLE, which will present the shell (three chevron prompts)

Writing a Simple Program

Creating a Guessing Game

1. Go to File > New File to open the editor
2. Start writing the Python program

Sample Code

• Print statement:

  print("I am thinking of a number between 1 and 10")  
  

• Save as guess.py in preferred source code directory

Importing Libraries

• Import random number functionality:

  import random  
  

Setting up the Game Logic

1. Generate a random number:

   n = random.randint(1, 10)  
   

2. Initialize game run status:

   running = True  
   

3. Create a while loop to control game running:

   while running:  
   

4. Get user input and provide feedback:
   • Prompt user to make a guess:

     guess_string = input("Take a guess: ")  
     guess = int(guess_string)  
     

   • Compare guessed number with generated number:

     if guess == n:  
         print("Well done, that is right!")  
         running = False  
     elif guess < n:  
         print("Try a bigger number.")  
     else:  
         print("Try a smaller number.")  
     

5. Ensure proper indentation for Python to recognize code blocks

Running the Program

• Save changes and run by selecting Run > Run Module
• Example Gameplay:
  • User guesses – program provides hints until the correct number is guessed

Conclusion

• The program lacks error checking (e.g., handling non-integer inputs)
• Encouragement to explore Python further
• Source code will be available in the video description

Call to Action

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