Fundamentals of Programming Using Python

Introduction

• Purpose: Teach programming fundamentals using Python.
• Assumed audience: No programming background.
• Objective: By the end, attendees will be able to write and run their own source code.

Why Learn Programming?

• Programming translates ideas into executable steps for computers.
• Applications:
  • Game development
  • Work-related applications to streamline tasks.
• Skills gained:
  • Problem-solving
  • Logical thinking

Why Python?

• Popularity: Most wanted language on YouTube channel polls.
• Key features:
  • Easy to use and understand.
  • Concise syntax.
  • General-purpose: web apps, tools, games, scientific analysis.
• Concepts learned in Python are transferable to other languages.

Getting Started with Python

Installation

1. Check if Python is installed:
   • Open Command Prompt (Windows) and type python --version.
   • If not found, go to python.org to download.
2. Download Python 3.9.2 or recommended version.
3. During installation, check "Add Python to PATH" option.

Running Code

• Open Python terminal after installation by typing "Python" in the search bar.
• Execute basic expressions:
  • Example: Type 1 + 2 and hit enter to get 3.
  • Example: Use print("Hello World") to output text.

Using a Text Editor (Notepad)

• Write code in Notepad:
  • Save as .py file (e.g., HelloWorld.py).
• Run Python file via command prompt:
  • Use python <file path> to run.

Integrated Development Environment (IDE)

• Visual Studio Code (VS Code) recommended for efficiency.

1. Download from code.visualstudio.com.
2. Install Python extension in VS Code:
   • Type "Python" in extensions search and install.
3. Set Python interpreter in VS Code:
   • Use Ctrl + Shift + P, type "Python: Select Interpreter".

Basic Python Concepts

Operators and Variables

• Addition: 1 + 2 (result: 3).
• Variables:
  • Naming rules: letters, numbers, underscores, case-sensitive.
  • Example: red_bucket = "Kevin".
• Print variable value using print(red_bucket).

Conditionals

• if, elif, else statements to control flow:
  • Example: Check if values are equal or different.

Functions

• Define a function using def keyword.
• Example: Create a function to print message multiple times.
• Return values from functions using return keyword.

Loops

• Types of loops:
  • While Loop: Execute code while a condition is true.
  • For Loop: Iterate over a range of values.
• Control loop behavior with break and continue statements.

Using Libraries

• Import existing libraries to simplify tasks:
  • Example: import math and use math.pi.

Error Handling

Common Errors:

1. Syntax Errors: Incorrect language syntax (e.g., missing quotes).
2. Runtime Errors: Errors that occur during execution (e.g., dividing by zero).
3. Semantic Errors: Logical errors that produce unexpected results.

Conclusion

• Summary of key concepts learned in Python.
• Encourage viewers to provide feedback and suggestions for future videos.