Introduction to Python Programming Language

Aug 3, 2024

Python Programming Language Lecture Notes

Introduction

  • Instructor expresses happiness to see the students.
  • Discusses Durga Sir as a reference for Java.
  • Python is introduced as an easy programming language compared to Java and others.

Programming Background

  • Queries students about their programming knowledge, specifically in C or C++.
  • Emphasizes that having a basic idea of another language makes learning Python easier.
  • No previous programming knowledge is also acceptable; Python is beginner-friendly.

The Importance of Python

  • Python is said to be very easy to learn, akin to speaking a mother tongue.
  • Past conventions favored C as the first language to learn, but those days are gone.
  • Python is now highly recommended for beginners.

Characteristics of Python

General Purpose Language

  • Python can be used for a variety of applications including:
    • Data Science
    • Machine Learning
    • Web Applications
    • Desktop Applications

High-Level Language

  • High-level programming languages are understandable by humans (unlike low-level languages).

Features of Python

  • Ease of Use: Python allows for writing programs in concise code.
  • First Program: "Hello, World!" example shows how code in Python is simpler compared to Java and C.

Python Development History

  • Python developed by Guido van Rossum in 1989.
  • Official public release was on February 20, 1991.
  • Python is over 27 years old and predates Java.

Why the Name "Python"?

  • Named after the BBC show "Monty Python's Flying Circus."
  • The name signifies fun and ease of use.

Object-Oriented and Scripting Language

  • Python supports:
    • Functional programming
    • Object-Oriented programming
    • Scripting programming
    • Modular programming

Applications of Python

  • Desktop Applications
  • Web Applications (Django, Flask)
  • Database Applications
  • Networking Applications
  • Game Development
  • Data Analysis
  • Machine Learning and AI Applications

Popularity and Usage

  • Companies using Python include:
    • Google
    • YouTube
    • Dropbox
    • NASA
    • Various others in tech and finance.

Key Takeaways

  • Python is the most recommended first programming language.
  • It is a versatile language used across various domains.
  • The syntax is borrowed from C and ABC languages, making it user-friendly.

Conclusion

  • Encourages students to learn Python, assuring them of its job prospects.
  • Wraps up the session with an invitation for questions.