FA-0393Software Development

Python Prerequisites

Your Launchpad to Python-Driven Learning - 2 Days

Introduction

Why this course

Python has become the universal language for problem-solving across domains like data science, artificial intelligence, web development, and beyond. Whether you're analyzing data, building machine learning models, or automating workflows, Python is often the go-to tool.

This course is designed to provide you with the foundational knowledge of Python so you can confidently transition into more advanced, domain-specific Python courses. With over 30 years of industry expertise, our instructor will teach you the most relevant and practical skills needed to thrive in today’s fast-paced learning environments.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

Understand Python’s basic syntax and structure.
Write and execute Python scripts.
Utilize essential Python data types, operators, and functions.
Implement control flow structures like loops and conditional statements.
Create and use Python functions effectively.
Work with lists, dictionaries, and other collection data types.
Debug simple Python programs.
Prepare to learn more advanced topics in Python through real-world exercises.

Prerequisites

Basic understanding of programming concepts (helpful but not mandatory).
A laptop with Python 3 installed (instructions for setup will be provided).
A Google Account (as we shall be using Google COlab as the IDE)
Willingness to learn and experiment with hands-on exercises.

Training outline

8 modules

011. Introduction to Python and Programming Fundamentals3 topics

Overview of Python: Why Python is Popular
- Applications in industry (AI, web, data science, automation).
Setting Up the Python Environment
- Initializing Python and an IDE.
- Introduction to writing and running Python scripts.
Python Syntax Basics
- Writing clean and readable code (PEP 8 overview).
- Executing code in interactive and script modes.

022. Core Data Types and Variables3 topics

Introduction to Variables
- Declaration and assignment of variables.
- Naming conventions and best practices.
Exploring Basic Data Types
- Numbers (integers, floats, and complex numbers).
- Strings: Manipulation and formatting.
- Booleans and logical operations.
Type Conversion and Input/Output
- Converting between data types.
- Using input() and print() effectively.

033. Operators and Expressions3 topics

Arithmetic Operators
- Addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, modulus, and more.
Comparison and Logical Operators
- Greater than, less than, equal to, and logical connectives.
Compound Statements and Operator Precedence

044. Control Flow: Making Decisions3 topics

Conditional Statements
- if, elif, and else structures.
- Nested conditionals and decision trees.
Looping Constructs
- for loops: Iterating over ranges, lists, and dictionaries.
- while loops: Conditions and infinite loop prevention.
Break, Continue, and Pass Statements

055. Functions: Modular and Reusable Code3 topics

Defining and Calling Functions
- Syntax for defining functions.
- Using parameters and returning values.
Scope and Lifetime of Variables
- Local vs. global variables.
Lambda Functions
- Introduction to anonymous functions for simplicity.

066. Working with Collections3 topics

Lists
- Creating, indexing, slicing, and modifying lists.
- List comprehensions for efficient operations.
Tuples and Sets
- Characteristics and use cases.
- Basic tuple operations.
Dictionaries
- Storing and accessing key-value pairs.
- Iterating through dictionaries.

077. Error Handling and Debugging2 topics

Understanding and Handling Errors
- Common Python errors and exceptions.
- Using try, except, else, and finally.
Debugging Techniques
- Using print statements and Python debuggers.

088. Practical Exercises and Applications2 topics

Writing a Small Python Program
- Hands-on implementation of learned concepts (e.g., a simple calculator or data summarizer).
Preparing for Advanced Python Courses
- Recommendations for further study.
- Insights into Python’s broader ecosystem (libraries like NumPy, pandas, and matplotlib).

This fast-paced, two-day course is the perfect stepping stone to unlock Python’s true potential in domain-specific applications. Get ready to build confidence and take on your Python journey with industry-grade skills!

A programme built around your team.

Share your training goals and requirements.