Introduction to Python

What is Python?

Python is a powerful, high-level, and easy-to-learn programming language created by Guido van Rossum and first released in 1991. It emphasizes readability, simplicity, and versatility, which makes it one of the most popular languages in the world today.

Python is widely used for everything from web development and data science to machine learning, automation, and artificial intelligence (AI). Its clear and concise syntax allows developers — even beginners — to focus on solving problems rather than worrying about complex syntax rules.

A Brief History

Today, Python 3 is the standard version used across industries and academic research.

Features of Python

Here are some of the standout features that make Python so popular:

1. Simple and Easy to Learn: Python's syntax is close to English, making it beginner-friendly and readable.
2. Open Source and Free: Python is completely free to download, use, and modify.
3. Interpreted Language: There's no need for compilation; Python executes code line by line, simplifying debugging.
4. Portable: Python code runs on any platform — Windows, macOS, Linux — without modification.
5. Extensive Libraries and Modules: The Python Standard Library includes modules for file handling, web development, math, and more.
6. Object-Oriented and Functional: Python supports both OOP (Object-Oriented Programming) and Functional Programming styles.
7. Strong Community Support: Millions of developers contribute to Python's open ecosystem, providing tutorials, packages, and forums.

Applications of Python

Python's versatility allows it to be used across nearly every technology field:

Python's "batteries included" philosophy means you can build nearly anything with it.

Installing Python

Before writing Python code, you'll need to install Python on your system.

Step 1: Download Python

-Visit the official Python website: https://www.python.org/downloads/
-Choose the version suitable for your OS (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
-Click "Download Python 3.x.x" and run the installer.

Tip: During installation on Windows, check the box “Add Python to PATH” to make command-line access easier.

Step 2: Verify Installation

After installation, open your Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (macOS/Linux) and type:

python --version

If you see something like:

Python 3.12.1

your installation is successful!

Installing Python IDEs

You can write Python code in any text editor, but using an IDE (Integrated Development Environment) makes coding faster and more efficient. Here are some popular choices:

1. VS Code (Visual Studio Code)

Lightweight and customizable. Best for beginners and intermediate learners.

Add the "Python" extension by Microsoft for syntax highlighting and debugging.

More: https://code.visualstudio.com/

2. PyCharm

Powerful professional IDE by JetBrains.

Includes smart code completion, refactoring, and debugging tools. Excellent for large projects.

More: https://www.jetbrains.com/pycharm/

3. Jupyter Notebook

Ideal for data science and machine learning.

Lets you combine code, visualizations, and explanations in one notebook. Install via:

pip install notebook
jupyter notebook

More: https://jupyter.org/

Writing and Running Your First Python Script

Once everything is installed, you're ready to write your first Python program!

Step 1: Open Your IDE or Text Editor

Create a new file named hello.py.

Step 2: Write the Code

print("Hello, World!")

Step 3: Run the Script

In VS Code: Click on the ▶️ Run button.

In Terminal/Command Prompt: Navigate to the folder containing the file and run:

python hello.py

You'll see the output:

Hello, World!

Congratulations! You've just written and executed your first Python program.

Summary

Python's simplicity and versatility make it the perfect choice for beginners — and a powerful tool for professionals. In the next article, we'll explore Python Syntax, Comments, and Variables to help you write cleaner and more organized code.