Python · Stage 0 · Before You Code · Lesson 2 of 50

What Is Python and Why Use It?

Meet Python and understand why it is a friendly first programming language.

Python is both the name of the language and the common name of the program that reads Python code on your computer. That reader is called an interpreter.

People use Python for websites, data analysis, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity tools, and small programs that remove repetitive work.

This is a complete Python program:

print("Python is ready")
Line-by-line explanation
  1. print is a tool already included with Python.
  2. "Python is ready" is the text given to that tool.
  3. Running the line produces the output Python is ready.

Python is not the best tool for every possible project, and that is normal. The thinking skills you learn with Python will transfer to other programming languages.

Tiny Practice: Choose a Use

Replace the words inside the quotes with one task you would like Python to help with.

Starter template

print("I want Python to...")
Line-by-line explanation
  1. print displays a message.
  2. The text between the quotes is the part to customize.
Hint
  1. Think of a repetitive computer task.
  2. Keep your answer between the quotes.
  3. You do not need to build the tool yet.
Show Solution
print("I want Python to organize my files")
Line-by-line explanation
  1. print displays the text.
  2. The text describes one real use for Python.
  3. The output is I want Python to organize my files.