Python Intro
Python is a high-level, dynamically typed, batteries-included programming language. It runs almost everywhere — backends, scripts, data work, embedded devices, and ML.
Why it's everywhere
- Readable — indentation is part of the grammar, so code looks like the structure it describes.
- Batteries included — JSON, HTTP, dates, regex, SQLite, threading, all in the standard library.
- Huge ecosystem — pip + PyPI has packages for almost every problem.
- Multiple paradigms — procedural, object-oriented, functional bits all welcome.
Where Python runs
| Domain | Examples |
|---|---|
| Web backends | Django, Flask, FastAPI |
| Data & ML | pandas, NumPy, scikit-learn, PyTorch, TensorFlow |
| DevOps & automation | Ansible, fabric, scripts |
| Scientific computing | SciPy, matplotlib, Jupyter |
| Embedded | MicroPython, CircuitPython |
| In your browser | Pyodide — what this site's Python editor uses |
The Python you're learning
This tutorial uses Python 3 — specifically modern Python (3.10+) features like match statements and structural pattern matching. Python 2 was retired in 2020.
Tip: If you already know JavaScript or another scripting language, Python's main novelty is significant indentation. Spend a minute on the syntax lesson before scrolling on.
Example
Example
# Python is a high-level, dynamic, batteries-included language.
print('Hello from Python', 3 + 4)
Try it Yourself »
Exercise
Python is dynamically… what?
Answer:
Five letters; the T in "duck typing".
Discussion
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