Python Programming Lecture Notes

Introduction to Python

• Python is the easiest programming language to learn.
• Popular and highly sought after in the job market with a starting salary of $64,000.

Setting Up Python Environment

1. Download Python

   • Visit python.org and download the latest version.
   • Ensure to check the box to add Python to the PATH during installation.

2. Install an IDE

   • Recommended IDE: PyCharm.
   • Download PyCharm from jetbrains.com.
   • Choose between Professional (paid) and Community (free).

3. Creating a New Project

   • Open PyCharm and create a new project.
   • Name it (e.g., "Hello World").

4. Creating a Python File

   • Go to File > New > Python File and name it main.py.

Basic Python Syntax

• Printing Messages: Use print() to display messages.
• Creating Variables: Assign values to variables using =.

Understanding Variables

• A variable is a container for a value.
• Different data types:
  • Strings: Series of characters surrounded by quotes.
  • Integers (int): Whole numbers.
  • Floats: Numbers with decimal points.
  • Booleans: True or False values.

Using Variables in Python

• Define variables using unique names and assign values.
• Use type checking with type(variable).
• Combining strings using +.

Control Structures

• Use if, elif, and else statements for conditions.
• Logical operators: and, or, not.

Functions in Python

• Define functions using def function_name():.
• Use return statements to send back a value.

Lists and Tuples

• Lists: Ordered collections of items that can be changed.
• Tuples: Ordered collections of items that cannot be changed.

Dictionaries

• Used to store data values in key:value pairs.
• Use dictionaries for structured data storage.

Object-Oriented Programming (OOP)

• Classes: Blueprint for creating objects.
• Objects: Instances of classes.
• Inheritance, polymorphism, encapsulation are key OOP concepts.

GUI Programming with Tkinter

• Create windows, buttons, labels, and other widgets.
• Use .pack(), .grid(), and .place() for layout management.

File Handling

• Open, read, write, and delete files using Python.
• Use with open('file.txt', 'r') to read files safely.

Examples of GUI Widgets

• Buttons: Clickable buttons that perform actions.
• Entry: Text boxes for single line input.
• Text Area: Multi-line text input.
• Check Buttons: Allow users to select multiple options.
• Radio Buttons: Allow users to select only one option from multiple choices.
• List Box: Displays a list of selectable items.

Advanced Topics

• List and Dictionary Comprehensions: Compact way to create lists/dictionaries.
• Threading: Allows concurrent execution of tasks.
• File Dialogs: Open and save files from a GUI.
• Canvas: Draw shapes and images.

Useful Functions and Features

• Lambda Functions: Anonymous functions for short, single-use situations.
• Map, Filter, Reduce: Functional programming tools for lists.
• Tkinter Menu: Create dropdown menus in GUI.
• Progress Bars: Indicate progress of tasks.

Conclusion

• Python is a versatile language suitable for various applications including web development, data science, automation, and GUI applications.
• Mastering the concepts outlined will enhance your programming skills.