Basic Python Programming Roadmap

Master the fundamental concepts and skills of Python programming to build your first applications.

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Stage Main Topic Content & Learning Activities Objectives & Deliverables
1 Introduction & Setup
  • Learn about Python and its applications.
  • Install Python and a code editor (VS Code).
  • Write and run the first "Hello, World!" program.
  • Understand what Python is and why you should learn it.
  • Successfully set up the programming environment.
2 Basic Syntax & Variables
  • Learn basic syntax: indentation, comments.
  • Declare and use variables, data types (int, float, str, bool).
  • Use `input()` and `print()` functions.
  • Perform type casting.
  • Write simple interactive programs.
  • Store and manipulate different types of data.
3 Operators
  • Use arithmetic, comparison, and logical operators.
  • Perform calculations and comparisons in Python.
4 Data Structures
  • Work with Lists and Tuples.
  • Store data with Dictionaries and Sets.
  • Choose the appropriate data structure for the problem.
5 Control Flow
  • Branch logic with if-elif-else statements.
  • Perform iteration with for and while loops.
  • Use `break` and `continue` to control loops.
  • Write programs with complex logic.
6 Functions
  • Define and call functions with the `def` keyword.
  • Use parameters and get return values with `return`.
  • Write structured and reusable code.
7 File Handling
  • Open, read, and write text files.
  • Use the `with` statement for safe file management.
  • Perform basic file read/write operations.
8 Exception Handling
  • Catch errors with try...except blocks.
  • Use `else` and `finally` in exception handling.
  • Write robust programs that can handle errors.
9 Modules and Packages
  • Use `import` to reuse code from other files.
  • Explore some modules from the standard library (math, random, datetime).
  • Install third-party packages with `pip`.
  • Extend program functionality by using libraries.
10 Introduction to OOP
  • Understand the basic concepts of Object-Oriented Programming (OOP).
  • Define a simple class and create an object.
  • Start thinking in an object-oriented way.
11 Small Consolidation Project
  • Apply learned knowledge to build a console application.
  • Suggestions: Calculator, Simple contact book, Guess the number game.
  • Consolidate knowledge and have a first practical product.

Core Mindsets for Python Programming

1. Readability Counts

Always follow the Python philosophy: code is read more often than it's written. Write code that is clear, simple, and understandable for both yourself and others.

2. Leverage the "Batteries Included"

Python has a huge standard library. Before writing a solution yourself, check if there's already a module that solves your problem.

3. Start Simple, Iterate, and Improve

Write the simplest version of the code to get it working first. You can always come back to refactor and improve it later as needed.

4. Debugging is a Skill

Don't just guess at errors. Learn to read tracebacks, use `print` statements strategically, and eventually, use a debugger to understand what your program is doing.