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README.md

Python Small

This repository contains small Python projects and guides for beginners.

There are three markdown files that will lead you through a series of steps to learn some beginner Python programming.

You will use the Python interpreter to learn about variables, functions, and classes. Make sure you TYPE the snippets from the markdown files into the Python interpreter. Not typing, doing copy/paste, will not help you learn (and is cheating at this point of the course)

Python Setup

Make sure you have Python installed on your system:

python3 --version

If you don't have Python installed:

  • macOS: Install via Homebrew: brew install python3

Using the Python Interpreter

Unlike Java which requires jshell for interactive programming, Python is interpreted by default.

To start the Python interpreter:

python3

You should see the Python prompt:

Python 3.x.x (default, ...)
[GCC ...] on linux
Type "help", "copyright", "credits" or "license" for more information.
>>>

To exit the Python interpreter:

  • Type exit() and press Enter
  • Or press Ctrl+D (Linux/macOS) or Ctrl+Z then Enter (Windows)

Python vs Java: Key Differences

Feature Java Python
Interactive Shell jshell Built-in interpreter
Variable Declaration int x = 5; x = 5
String Concatenation "Hello " + name f"Hello {name}"
Method Definition public void method() {} def method():
Class Constructor ClassName(params) {} def __init__(self, params):
Boolean Values true, false True, False
Code Blocks { } Indentation

Learning Path

Use a browser to be able to see the markdown files. Start with PythonSmall.md and follow the links to the other guides:

  1. PythonSmall.md - Learn Python basics with the interpreter
  2. VARS.md - Understanding Python variables and types
  3. ClassPerson.md - Creating and using Python classes

Tips for Success

  1. Type, don't copy-paste - Build muscle memory
  2. Experiment freely - Python interpreter is forgiving
  3. Use meaningful variable names - Python encourages readability
  4. Pay attention to indentation - Python uses whitespace for structure
  5. Read error messages - Python error messages are helpful

Common Python Conventions

  • Variable names: Use snake_case (not camelCase)
  • Function names: Use snake_case
  • Class names: Use PascalCase
  • Constants: Use UPPER_CASE
  • Indentation: Use 4 spaces (not tabs)

File Extensions

  • Python files: .py
  • Python interactive files: Can be saved as .py files

Running Python Files

Once you create a Python file (like hello.py), run it with:

python3 hello.py

Additional Resources

Getting Help

In the Python interpreter:

  • help() - Interactive help
  • dir(object) - Show object attributes
  • type(variable) - Show variable type
  • help(function) - Help for specific function

Start your Python journey with PythonSmall.md!