Python Essentials You Always Wanted to Know

1. Thinking Like a Programmer

1.1 The Importance of Learning Programming
1.2 Python − A Beginner Friendly Language
1.3 Programming and Programmatic Thinking
1.4 Pseudocode and Flowcharts
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2. Getting Started with Python

2.1 Syntax and Fundamentals
2.2 Data Types
2.3 Working with Variables
2.4 Conditional Statements
2.5 Loops and Iteration
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3. Data Structures in Python

3.1 Introduction to Data Structures
3.2 Working with Lists and Tuples
3.3 Manipulating Sets and Dictionaries
3.4 Overview
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4. Functions and Modular Programming

4.1 Importing Functions from Python Libraries
4.2 Writing Your Own Functions
4.3 Understanding Functions and Variable Scope
4.4 Working with Modules and Packages
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5. Object-Oriented Programming

5.1 Understanding Object-Oriented Concepts
5.2 Classes and Objects in Python
5.3 Inheritance and Composition
5.4 Polymorphism and Method Overriding
5.5 Encapsulation
5.6 Designing Object-Oriented Solutions
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6. Error Handling and Exceptions

6.1 Understanding Errors and Exceptions
6.2 Handling Errors with Try-Except Blocks
6.3 Raising and Handling Custom Exceptions
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7. A Practical Guide for Working Professionals

7.1 The Role of Data in Today’s Workplace
7.2 Navigating Data Analytics
7.3 Leveraging Python for Business Insights
7.4 Advancing Your Career with Python Skills
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8. Case Studies

8.1 Introduction
8.2 Case Study 1: Change Calculation System
8.3 Case Study 2: Optimizing Employee Scheduling for a Small Business
8.4 Case Study 3: Data Analysis to Find an Investment Opportunity
8.5 Conclusion
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9. Exploring Emerging Trends in Programming

9.1 Exploring Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
9.2 Internet of Things (IoT)
9.3 Web Scraping: An Introduction to Extracting Data from Websites
9.4 Web Frameworks: Building Powerful Web Applications
9.5 Cloud Computing Solutions
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10. Next Steps and Further Resources

10.1 Continuing Your Python Journey
10.2 Building Programming Skills
10.3 What to Do When You Get Stuck
10.4 Exploring Career Opportunities in Programming
10.5 Recommended Tools and Resources
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Glossary


Bibliography

Shawn Peters has 19 years of teaching experience, is certified in Python Programming Teaching from the College of the North Atlantic, and also specializes in JavaScript and Java.

Vibrant Publishers is focused on presenting the best texts for learning about technology and business as well as books for test preparation. Categories include programming, operating systems and other texts focused on IT. In addition, a series of books helps professionals in their own disciplines learn the business skills needed in their professional growth.

Vibrant Publishers has a standardized test preparation series covering the GMAT, GRE and SAT, providing ample study and practice material in a simple and well organized format, helping students get closer to their dream universities.

The Self-Learning Management Series is designed to help students, new managers, career switchers, and entrepreneurs learn essential management lessons and covers every aspect of business, from HR to Finance to Marketing to Operations across any and every industry. Each book includes basic fundamentals, important concepts, and standard and well-known principles as well as practical ways of application of the subject matter.

This book really is excellent. I hope this review reflects that:

Python Essentials You Always Wanted to Know by Shawn Peters provides a brilliant approach to learning Python. It not only moves you through all aspects of programming in Python, but with a focus on using the language to address and efficiently solve problems of many sorts.

Its approach is novel in that it encourages the reader to play a lead role in breaking down and thinking through problems and provides expert guidance on how to do this. It also includes quizzes and answers so that you can test yourself on what you’ve learned.

You can read the book from front to back or jump into whatever aspect of programming is challenging you at the moment. Whether you’re a beginning programmer or an experienced programmer looking to advance your coding skills or approach to problem-solving in Python, you’re going to appreciate this book.
-- Sandra Henry-Stocker, NetworkWorld

This book offers a beginner-friendly approach to learning Python, focusing not only on syntax but also on problem-solving, which is key for effective programming. The author’s clear intent is to make coding enjoyable and relevant, providing examples that are simple yet significant to help readers follow along. The emphasis is on applying coding skills practically, with quizzes and case studies included to solidify understanding. By the end, readers will grasp essential concepts such as Python syntax, data structures, error handling, and object-oriented programming, all while gaining the confidence to solve real-world problems. Having an understanding of these concepts, you will be well-prepared to tackle more advanced Python topics and apply your skills to real-life coding challenges.
-- LooYee NG, Solutions Architect at CTMG

What a great introduction to this topic, especially for a non-programmer like myself! The examples provided are easy to understand and apply, allowing me to try it out for myself to further cement my understanding of the steps involved. Read, See, Do. A great way to learn. I really enjoyed the quizzes at the end of each chapter, as they emphasized what the important takeaways were and reinforced what I did know - and what I didn’t. I’ll probably never become a programmer, but understanding how programming works is an asset to any user.
-- Sharon Peach B.Sc, B.Ed, M.Ed

This beginner-friendly guide makes mastering this versatile language accessible for everyone. It provides clear explanations and practical examples while avoiding technical jargon, making it perfect for absolute beginners and those at various skill levels. Even as someone who isn’t usually into programming, I found it easy to follow!
-- Samantha Nichols
Net Galley Reviewer

I had been looking for a companion guide to go along with some introductory python courses I had been taking and this was perfect, it offered what I needed as a beginner and helped to put steps into writing so I could easily refer back to them when I needed to!
-- Victoria Madigan
Net Galley Reviewer

I have not yet implemented all the lessons/the coding exercises in this book but I checked them all out.

I have a child who is interested in coding. and I love to learn to know more about coding myself in my spare time. This is a good resource for almost total beginners like us.
-- Didem
Durak Akser
Net Galley Reviewer

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