If the thought of learning a programming language sends you into a panic, you’re not alone. Unless coding is your absolute passion, learning a programming language typically takes a lot of time, and even then, you’ll probably still have plenty of questions.
However, mastering the complexities of Python doesn’t take years or even months. The popular programming language is both versatile and simple to use. Ready to get started learning Python? Here are a few tips to help ensure you can write code like a professional.
Why Should You Learn Python
Just because a programming language bills itself as simple to learn and use doesn’t automatically mean it’s one you need in your arsenal. With that being said, there are a few benefits you get from Python.
Did you know Python has possible applications across a variety of industries? These include healthcare, finance, and, of course, technology. Web, software, and game development can all use Python. Data science and machine learning are other fields where Python comes in handy.
Browse Data Science jobs on Employbl.
GitHub tracks the top programming languages and Python is on the list. In 2022, Python experienced a 22.5% increase in use. Python is the third most popular programming language and companies are starting to take notice. Learning Python can help open new career paths, especially if you also hold a certificate. You can even be certified in Python; most online and in-person training courses provide certificates upon successful completion.
Best of all, it only takes around 1 to 3 months to learn Python basics and about a year to master the advanced functions.
Tips for Learning Python
Learning a new programming language can be exciting, even if you’re not a skilled coder. However, before diving into the training sessions here are a few tips to help ensure you get the most out of your classes.
1. Decide on a Focus
Python can do a lot, and it’s almost impossible to learn everything at once—even the best training courses can’t teach everything in a single session. There’s also a good chance you’re going to feel confused if you’re learning data analysis and web development using Python simultaneously. So, think about what you want to focus on.
Are you getting ready to develop a new web page or work with artificial intelligence or AI? Deciding on a focus will make it easier to learn Python. Remember, you’re not limited to a single area of expertise. You can also go back and expand your skill set as necessary.
2. Practice Can Make Perfect
You know the saying ‘practice makes perfect’? This definitely applies as you’re learning Python. Even though it’s relatively simple coding, there are still nuances and complexities. Create a daily schedule that allows for some coding time, even if it’s only for a few minutes.
Don’t worry about learning new code or starting complex tasks; concentrate on the skills you’re learning in your training sessions. Yes, it can get boring writing the same code a few days in a row, but you’re also mastering the basics and this means you’ll soon be ready to tackle more complex projects. If writing the same code is putting you to sleep, try adding some coding challenges to your practice time.
3. Start Working on Actual Projects
As you’re learning Python, you’re not going to be ready to be a project leader, but you can be a team member. If you’re not ready to join a team at work, no worries. You can work on projects you create in your free time.
Consider building a mini-game and having a few friends try it out—you can even build a project that analyzes data. The goal is to keep practicing what you learn, so it becomes almost automatic. Once you’ve mastered the simple projects, you can move on to more advanced ones.
When you're ready you can search for Python jobs on Employbl.
4. Join a Community
Learning is almost always more enjoyable when you’re in a group, and this also means you have access to other sources of information. If a Python concept has you confused and frustrated, someone in your community may be able to walk you through the explanation.
Online communities are also great places to share your projects. You can get helpful advice and constructive criticism from others in similar positions. Besides, it’s almost always fun to learn with other like-minded individuals.
Discover companies that use the Python programming language as part of their tech stack here.
Take Your Career to the Next Level with Python
Python's simplicity and readability make it an ideal language for beginners, emphasizing the importance of a solid grasp of the basics.
Progressively building up from fundamental concepts without rushing lets learners effectively solidify their understanding, which is essential for tackling advanced topics. Regular practice reinforces this knowledge, ensuring that as you advance, you're well-prepared to handle more complex programming tasks with Python.