Introduction to Python

In this lesson, you will learn what Python is, why it was developed, its major features, where it is used, and why millions of developers choose Python for their projects.

What is a Python?

Python is a high-level, interpreted, and free general-purpose programming language with beautiful syntax. Python is designed to make programming easier, more readable, and more productive. In short, it is designed to be easy to read and simple to use. It is available across many platforms including Windows, Linux and Mac OS. Python provides a great laboratory for the neophyte programmer. The best part is that Python makes learning to program fun. From creating websites and mobile applications to building artificial intelligence systems and analyzing large amounts of data, Python has become an essential tool across many industries.

Unlike many other programming languages that require complicated syntax, Python allows programmers to write clear and readable code. This feature of Python makes it easier to learn, maintain and use on software projects.

Python was created by Guido van Rossum and released in 1991.

Todays, Python powers maximum modern websites, scientific research, financial systems, automation tools, machine learning applications, cybersecurity solutions, robotics, and even space exploration projects. Its popularity continues to grow because it enables developers to solve problems efficiently with less code.

High-Level Language

For Example:-

print("Welcome to Python")

The above example clearly states that anyone who has never programmed before can understand what this statement is trying to do.

Interpreter Language

As an interpreter language, Python programs are executed by an interpreter. Instead of converting the entire program into machine code before execution, Python reads and executes the program step by step. This approach provides several following benefits:-

• Faster Testing
• Easier debugging
• Interactive programming
• Cross-platform compatibility
• General-purpose language

Moreover, Python is not limited to only one field. It can be used for:-

• Web development (Django, Flask)
• Desktop Applications
• Mobile Applications
• Software backends
• Artificial Intelligence
• Machine Learning
• Data Science Automation
• Robotics Cybersecurity
• Cloud Computing
• Internet of Things (IoT)
• Game Development
• Desktop GUI Applications
• Scientific Research
• Cyber security and more...

This flexible feature of this language is one of the biggest and primary reason for Python's populariy.

Why Python is so popular?

• Simple and easy to learn
• Wide range of applications
• Large community support
• Cross-platform compatibility
• Regular updates and improvements

Key Features of Python

The following are the key features of the python:-

• Easy to learn and use
• Readable and clean syntax
• Interpreted Language
• High-level Language
• Platform Independent
• Object-Oriented
• Large Standard Library
• Open Source

Every python program starts with indentation and simple syntax.

Python Packages

With Python we do not get so much out of the box. We need to install different packages for different topics. This approach has both advantages and disadvantages. The disadvantage is that we need to install these packages separately as per our project requirement and then later import these modules in our code.

We find packages for almost everything, from Scientific Computing to Web Development. We have a need to download these packages and install separately. For eg:- a distribution package like Anaconda, where we typically get the packages we need for scientific computing. 

There are lots of Python package exists, depending on what we need and what we are going to solve. There are Python packages for Desktop GUI Development, Database Development, Web Development, Software Development, etc.

For Example:-

Python packages for Science and Numerical Computations are:-

• NumPy - NumPy is the fundamental package for scientific computing with Python
• SciPy - SciPy is a free and open-source Python library used for scientific computing and technical computing.
• Matplotlib - Matplotlib is a Python 2D plotting library
• Pandas - Pandas Python Data Analysis Library