Expert Precis to improve NTs Ay 4TH EDITION 100% INDEPENDENTDiscover more of our Complete Manuals today... {WhatsApp Manual The Cor te Python Aa Wve Complete Nikon Lee Tt Manual Manual( BDM's Definitive Guide Series Maya uoia eter ees ame e ia 1) development is to be clear about what you are trying to build.” giame stroustrup (Developer and creator of C+) Our modern digital world is made up of code. The Internet, our phones, TVs, games consoles, banking and virtually anything else you can think of, that’s connected in some way to the wider world, has some Form of code behind it, driving it and telling it how to rT RU cok elon Biel Meee Me cra el ee) |e cele LTA} languages. Some offer better stability, speed and complex algorithms. Others are designed for use with minimal system resources, in places that are impossible for an engineer to Elece cele ea Ese eee Ear 1PM ele industry runs off clever coding. In short, code surrounds and LAULUT Net) Neto laetel mele What a brilliant time then, to learn how to code; to see how a few simple lines of code can create something amazing and can interact with you and your technology. Python and C++ are two Oma aureia eee RoE ete aol EU RV 7iel) the help of this book plus a little imagination, you will soon be Ee leaped T cole Now, turn the page and let's start learning how to code. y F zBe eo ae ery are O. 6 SW Tau RUT k eer STS as Chena uy (74) Using Modules 92) Say Hello to C++ Cc aCe) 52) Working with Datai i Fa 9Working wien Code | Wi ie:It’s always worth looking at the common pitfalls of coding before you start hitting away at the keyboard; after all, bad habits are often formed at the start of a process. IF you're aware of how to structure your code before you begin, then you will learn to avoid most of the mistakes that usually accompany poorly developed code. This section starts your coding journey by examining those common mistakes, as well as investigating where your coding skills can take you as your experience grows. “Most good programmers do programming not because they expect to get paid or get adulation by the public, but because it is Fun to program.” Linus Torvalds (developer of the Linux kernel)mmon Coding Mistakes Co NUR eee hae NR Mu Aue cme ey Tag Cel nae Ue ies Mee Net lace n eget even experts make the occasional mishap. Thing is, to learn from them as best you car X=MISTAKE, PRINT Y There are many pitfalls For the programmer to be aware of, Far too many to be listed here. Being able to recognise a mistake and fix it is when you start to move into more advanced territory, and become a better coder. Everyone makes mistakes, even coders with over thirty years’ experience. Learning from these basic, common mistakes help build a better coding Foundation. e EASY VARIABLES "Meaningful naming for variables is @ must to eliminate common coding mistakes. Having letters ofthe alphabet isfine but what happens when the code states there's. a problem with x variable. It’s not too dificult to name variables tives, money, playert and soon. Ie would be wonderful to be able to ‘work lke Neo from The Matrix movies. Simply ask, your operator toads it into your memory and you instantly know everything about the subject. Sadly though, we cant do that. The First ‘major pitfallis someone trying to learn too much, too quickly. So take coding in small pieces and take your time. points points); write("Lives: "s1ives); write + "totaltimes" secs’ write( Y ‘totalscore //[COMMENTS write("Your total Score is: “+totalscore); Use comments t's simple concept but commenting on jour code saves so many problems when you next come to took overt Inserting comment nes helps you auch sift PLAN AHEAD through the sections of code that are causing problems; also useful fyou need to review an older piece of code While it’s great to wake up one morning and decide to code a classic text adventure, it's not always practical without a ‘good plan. Small snippets of code can be written without, too much thought and planning but longer and more in depth cade requires a good working plan to stickto and help iron out the bugs.USER ERROR BACKUPS SS ECR a an} SECURE DATA@) Working with Code ) Python Beginner's Mistakes Python isa relatively easy language to get started in where there's plenty of room for Reel ee cuca Me eka ae ear) language, it can be easy to make common mistakes that'll stop your code from running. DEF BEGINNER(MISTAKES=10) Here are ten common Python programming mistakes most beginners Find themselves making. Being able to identify these ‘mistakes will save you headaches in the Future. VERSIONS INDENTS, TABS AND SPACES Toadé to the confusion that most beginners already face when Python uses precise indentations when displaying its code. The coming into programming, Python has two live versions oF its indents mean that the code in that sectionis apart ofthe previous language available to download and use. ThereiisPython version _statement, and not something linked with another part ofthe code. 2.7.x and Python 3.6.x. The 3.6.x version isthe most recent, and Use four spaces to create an indent, not the Tab key. the one we'd recommend starting. But, version 2.7xcode doesn't always work with 3.6.x code and vice versa, =a python THE INTERNET COMMENTING Every programmer has and does at sme point goon the Internet Again we mention commenting. l’s a hugely important factorin {and copy some code to insertinta their own routines. There's programming, even if you're the only one wito sever going to view ‘nothing wrong with using others’ code, but you need to knowhow the cade, you need to add comments as to what's ging on. Is this the code works and what it does before you go blindly runningiton function where you lose a life? Write a comment and help you, or your own computer. anyone else, see what's going on, Creatldelete a. fle na python program sss prea EID ow eFintive Gude Series VolumesCOUNTING LOOPS Remember thatn Python 3 loop doesn't count the last number you specify ina range. Soif you wanted the loop to count from 1 to 10, then you will need to user n= ListCrange(1, 119) (hich will return 1 to 10. TB reeatie Sealand CASE SENSITIVE Python is a case sensitive programming language, so you will need to check any variables you assign For example, Lives=10 is 2 different variable to lives=10, calling the wrong variable in your code canhave unexpected results. Britton Fle_ft_Shell_Debug Options Window _Help Python 3.6.2 (¥3.6.2:5¢a33b5, dul @ 2017, 04 fon wins? Type "copyright", 53> Laves=10 >>> Lavesss >>> print (Lives, lives) 3 Nozedite" or "License()" for mor BRACKETS Everyone forgets ta include that extra bracket they should have added to the end ofthe statement. Python relies on the routine having an equal amount of closed brackets ta open brackets, so any errors in your code could be due to you forgetting to count your brackets including square brackets. def print_game_status(self): print (board[len(self.missed_letters)]) Print ‘Word: ' + self-hide word()) print (‘Letcers Missed: *,) for letter in self.missed letter: print (letcer,) print () print ("Letters Guessed: *,) for letter in self.guessed letters: print (letcer,) print () Ee C Python Beginner's Mistakes COLONS It’s common for beginners to forget to add a colon tothe end of 8 structural statement, such as lass Hangman: def quess(self, letter): ‘And oon. The colonis what separates the code, and creates the indents to which the Following code belongs to. OPERATORS Using the wrong operator is also common mistake to make. When youre performing a comparison between two values, for example, you need to use the equality operator (a double equals, ==). Using 23 single equal =) ian assignment operator that places a value to 3 variable (such as, Ives=10). OPERATING SYSTEMS ‘writing code For multiple platforms is dificult, especially when you start to utilise the external commands ofthe operating system, For ‘example, iF your code calls For the screen to be cleared, then For windows you would use eS. Whereas, for Linux you need to use ‘lear. You need to solve this by capturing the error and issuing it with an alternative command, 4 code to detect exror for using a aitterent 05 ‘e-ayotem(tcieas") —————z= Working with Code_) C++ Beginner's Mistakes There are many pitfalls the C++ developer can encounter, especially as this is a more CoM Ceu eur Tene anes men cechel cere rc) Pen ee neh sates al Coal orate afer VOID(C++, MISTAKES) Admittedly 's not just C++ beginners that make the kinds of errors we outline on these pages, even hardened coders are prone to the odd mishap here and there. Here are some common issues to try and avoid. UNDECLARED IDENTIFIERS ‘Acommon C++ mistake, andto be honest a common mistake with ‘most programming languages, s when youtry and output a variable that doesnt exist. Displaying the value of x onscreen isfine but not ifyouhaver't told the compiler what the value of xis to begin with File Edit View Search Tools Documents Help aoa eojag mel y (Citestt.cpp x #include GCC OR G++ IF you're compiling in Linux then you will no doubt come across ‘gccand g++. Inshort, gcc the Gnu Compiler Collection (or Gnu C Compiler as it used to be called) and ge isthe Gnu ++ (the C++ version) of the compiler. f you're compiling C++ then you need to, use g++, asthe incorrect compiler drivers willbe used. . davidermint mate Documents Fle Edt view Search Terminal HelpCOMMENTS (AGAIN) Indeed the mistake of never making any comments on code is back ‘once more. As we've previously bemoaned, the lack of readable identifiers throughout the cade makesit very difficult to look backat hhowit worked, for both you and someone else, Use more comments. QUOTES ‘Missing quotes is a common mistake to make, for every level oF ser. ‘Remember that quotes need to encase strings and anything that's ‘going tobe outputted to the screen or into a ile, For example, Most compilers errors are due to missing quotes in the code, EXTRA SEMICOLONS ‘while it’s necessary to have a semicolon at the end of every C++ tine, there are some exceptions to the rule. Semicolons need to be at the end of every complete statement but some lines of cade aren't complete statements. Such as #include if lines switch Lines fit sounds confusing don’t worry, the compiler lets you know where you went wrong, TOO MANY BRACES ‘The braces, or curly brackets, are beginning and ending markers ~around blocks of code, So for every {you must have a}. Often is ‘easy to include or miss out one or the other Facing brace when ‘writing code; usually when writing in a text editor, as an IDE adds them For you. #include > x; cout << x; { cout << "\n\n cout << mystring ? INITIALISE VARIABLES In C++ variables arent initialised to zero by default. This means if Yyou create a variable called x then, potentially, itis given arandom number fram 0 to 18,446,744,073, 709,551,616, which can be difficult to include in an equation. When creating a variable, give it the value of zero to begin with: X=. include What can you do to further your skills, learn new coding practises, experiment and present your code and even begin to help ‘thers using what you've experienced so far? TWITTER ‘Twitter srtall trols and antagonists, among the well publicised vitriol are some genuine people who are more than wing to spread their coding knowledge. We recommend you find afew who you can ‘late to and follow them. Often they post great tips, hacks and fixes fForcommon cading problems. = a oe KEEP CODING \f you've mastered Python fairly wel then turn your attention to Cet oreven GH. Sillkeep your Python skills going butlearing anew cading language keeps the old bran ticking over nicely and give youa view into another community, and how they do things differently. 01 tn ite Ses olan OPEN PROJECTS Look fr open source projects that you lke the sound of and offer to.contribute tothe code to keep it alive and up to date. There are millons of projects to choose From, so contact a few and see where they need help. It may only be a minor code update butit’s a noble ‘occupation for codersto getinto SHARE SKILLS Become more active on coding and development knowledge sites, such as StackExchange, If you have the skills to start and help others ‘out, not only will you feel really good for doing so but you can also, learn alot yourself by interacting with other members.GOING MOBILE The mobile market isa great place to test your coding skis and present any games or apps you've created. IF your app is good, then ‘who knows, it could be the next great thing to appear on the app stores. I's a good learning experience nevertheless, and something worth considering D coger = i ar, ONLINE LEARNING Online courses are good examples of where to take your coding skills next, even if you start From the beginner level again. Often, an online course follows a strict coding convention, sof you're sel taught then it might be worth seeing how other developers lay out their code, and what's considered acceptable. Learn to code interactively, for free ( Where Next? ‘C PORTFOLIOS IF you've learned how to code with an eye for a developer jab in the Future, then k's worth starting to build up an online portfolio ‘of code. Look at job postings and see what skills they require, then learn and code something with those skills and add itto the portfolio when it comes to applying, include a link to the portfolio, My Work: TEACH CODE Can you teach? If your coding sil are spot on, consider approaching a college or university to see iFthey have need fora programming language teacher, perhaps a part-time or evening ‘course. not teaching, then consider creating your own YouTube how to code channel SHARE CODE Get sharing, even if you think your code isnt very good. The iitcism, advice and comments you receive back help you iron out ~anyssues with your code, and you add them alto your checklist Alternatively your code might be utterly amazing but you won't know unless you share t HARDWARE PROJECTS Contributing to hardware projects isa great resource For proving your ‘ode with others and learning from ther contributors. Mary of the ‘developer boards have postings for coders to apply to For hardware projects, using unique code to get the most from the hardware that's being designed,STA male) to Python “The best programs are written so that computing machines can perform them quickly, and so that human beings can understand them clearly.” — Donald E. Knuth (Computer scientist, mathematician and author) ae 01 tn ite Ses olanSay Hello to Python ‘There are many different programming languages available to learn and use. Some are terrifically complex and incredibly powerful, while some are extremely basicand used as minor utilities For the ‘operating system. Python sits somewhere in the middle, combining ease of use with é a generous helping of power, allowing the user to create projects ranging from minor utilities through to great games and performance-heavy computational tasks. However, there's more to Python than simply being another programming language. It has vibrant and lively community behind it that shares knowledge, code and project ideas, as well as bug fixes for future releases. t's thanks to this community that the language has grown and thrived, so now it's your turn to take the plunge and learn how to program in Python, This section will get you started with Python and introduce you to this. remarkable programming language. Before long, you will be able to code your own helpful systems tools, text adventures and even control a character as they move around the screen. 18 WhyPython? 20 Equipment You Will Need 22 Getting to Know Python 24 How to Set Up Python in Windows How to Set Up Python in Linux ora bpublications comWhy Python? DeSean sae uur cue eC Camu ureon tis PI Ree eric nciemac cru m aides lca etal ences Ere Kel sre eho TAN OM Com Cell CP Cece eRe mc M WN Renee Python out of all the rest? PYTHON POWER Ever since the earliest home computers were available, enthusiasts, users and professionals have toiled away until the wee hours, sta ‘These pioneers of programming carved their way into anew Frontier, Forging small routines that enabled the letter ‘to scroll {across the screen It may not sound terribly exciting to 8 generation that's used to ultra high-definition graphics and open world, multi player online gaming, However, Forty-something years ago it was blindingly brillant. ‘Naturally these bedroom coders helped form the foundations for, ‘every piece of digital technology we use today. Some went on to ‘become chief developers for top software companies, whereas others pushed the available hardware tots limits and Founded the billion pound gaming empire that continually amazes us. Regardless of whether you use an Android device, 10S device, PC, ‘Mac, Linux, Smart TY, games console, MP3 player, GPS device builtin to. car, settop box ora thousand other connected and ‘smart appliances, behind them alls programming. over an overheating heap of circuitry to create somet akin to magi All those aforementioned digital devices need instructions to tell. them what to do, and allow them to be interacted with, These instructions Form the programming core ofthe device and that core ‘ane built using a variety of programming languages. ‘The languages in use today differ depending on the situation, the platform, the device's use and how the device wl interact wth ts ‘environment or users. Operating systems, such as Windows, macOS ‘and such are usually a combination of C+, CH, assembly and some form of visual-based language. Games generally use C++ whilst web pages can use a plethora of available languages such as HTML, Java, Python and so on More general-purpose programming is used to create programs, _apps, software or whatever else you want to cal them. They're widely used across all hardware platforms and suit virtually every ‘conceivable application. Some operate Faster than others and some eee 00 tn ites vole 4 verdgrid * {js'e= colum.cetcount() a) 0) fe 6 Hao Rokr Bas Gy fat Se Py cr o|sncnacess) O/B Hee #2 5@ sxtcureor(p-y)s cerl:schitseatrocusiS vod arraycert::chitdLostroct ‘leursor >= 0) efresinoetcursor); — cxrtehstatastfocue()} om Gremetvonce |) void _srraycert::Paine(Orawe ) ( rem ‘inintCsine 2 Shoe Ceeshsets $oawmacas Stance oor oa see ss uf « column cata) fre) € Crocker rs eviaowidth( jel; Stones Ua ter $ Stace i Stace” » Gren Eater fc = eland(scoloroisabled, sclorPaper): Sreane eal Street TENELE cetcount()) wc ‘top SERtLiner) « ab Seco Sites etsy) breeds Sate re bottom = Sop t optuanecy (a)Why Python? {are easier to lear and use than others. Python sone such general- purpose language. Python is what's known as a High-Level Language in that it 'talks! to the hardware and operating system using avarety of arrays, variables, objects, arithmetic, subroutines, loops and countless ‘more interactions. Whilst it's not as streamlined asa Low-Level Language, which can deal directly with memory addresses, cal stacks and registers, ts benefitis that it's universally accessible {and easy to lear. Python was created over twenty sixyears ago and has evolved to become an ideal beginners language for learning howto programa computer.’ perfect for the hobbyist, enthusiast, student, teacher {and those who simply need to create their own unique interaction between either themselves or a piece of external hardware and the computer itself Python i Free to download, install and use andi available for Linux, \Windows, macOS, MS-DOS, 05/2, BeOS, IBM iseries machines, and ‘even RISC OS. Ithas been voted one of the top five programming languages in the word and fs continually evolving ahead Of the hardware and internet development curve ‘oto answerthe question: why python? Simply put, it's Free, easy to learn, exceptionally powerful, universally accepted, effective and a superb learning and educational tool. [/7FiTe: invoke. java. Fimport java. lang.reflect.*; class rnvoke DUbIHE static void main( string [) args ) { try Gass ¢ = Class. forname( args[o] ); Method m = c-getMethod( argsi1], new class 0) 5 object ret = _m.invoke( null, null); systen.out.printinc “Tnvoked. static method: " + args{4] + of clase: © + args[o) with no args\neesules: * + ret; } catch ( Classnocroundexception e ) { 77 Class. fornane(.). can't find the class } Catch C Nosuchwiethodexception e2') { Se | pages stop boxes Tsun evens Bais. oe 2 THEN LET py Python is a more modern take on BASIG, it's easy to learn BASIC was once the starter language that early 3nd makes for an ideal beginner's programming language. B-bit home computer users learned. ona bdmpublcatonsz= Say Hello to Python Equipment You Will Need ole TaN TMs enon (Lee CURT Ke LU 1k Aol ONIN 0 aT 1aCe Ma en ol) don’t need an incredibly powerful computer and any software that’s required is freely available. WHAT WE'RE USING Thankfully, Python is a multi-platform programming language available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Raspberry Pi and more. If you have one of those systems, then you can easily start using Python. 00 tn ies oun 4 COMPUTER Obviously you're going to need a computer in order to learn how to program in Python and to test your code. You can use Windows from XP onward) on elther a 32 or 64-bit processor, an Apple Mac or Linux Installed PC. [| AN IDE AniDE (Integrated Developer Environment) is used to enter and execute Python code. It enables you to inspect your program code and the values within the code, as well as offering advanced Features. There are many different IDEs availabe, so find the one that works For you and gives the best results PYTHON SOFTWARE ‘macOS and Linux already come with Python preinstalled as part of the ‘operating system, as does the Raspberry Pi, However, you need to ensure that you're running the latest version of Python, Windows users need to download and install Python, which well cover shorty |_| TEXT EDITOR \Whilst a text editors an ideal environment to enter code into, it's not an absolute necessity. You can enter and execute code directy From the IDLEbuta text editor, such as Sublime Text or Notepad++, offers more advanced features and colour cading when entering code. INTERNET ACCESS Python isan ever evolving environment and as such new versions ‘often introduce new concepts or change existing commands and code structure to make i a more efficient language. Having accessto the Internet will keep you upsto-date, help you out when you get stuck and give access to Python's immense number of modules. |_| TIME AND PATIENCE Despite what other books may lead you to believe, you won't become a programmerin 24-hours. Leaming to code in Python takes time, and patience. You may become stuckat times and other times the code wll Flows ke water, Understand you're learning something entirely new, and ‘you wil get there.THE RASPBERRY PI Why use a Raspberry Pi? The Raspberry Pisa tiny computer that’s very cheap to purchase but offers the user a fantasticlearning platform. Its main operating system, Raspbian, comes preinstalled with the latest Python along with many modules and extras. Sa aaa) The Raspberry Pi3 isthe latest version, incorporating a more powerful CPU, more memory, Wii and Bluetooth suppor. You can pick up aPi for around €32 or as apart of kit For £50+, depending on the kit you're interested in. The Raspberry P's main operating system isa Debian-based Linux distribution that comes with everything you need in simple to use package. t's streamlined forthe Piand s an ideal platform for hardware and software projects, Python programming and even asa desktop computer. FUZE PROJECT Cequpmentvouwilveed CR The FUZE isa learning environment built on the latest model ofthe Raspberry i. You can purchase the workstations that come with an electronics kitand even a robot arm for you to build and program. ‘You can find more information on the FUZE at www.Fuze.co.uk Coding for Linux We have several great E Raspberry Pititles available via wwwbdmpublications. ‘com, Our Pi books cover how tobuy your First Raspberry Pi, seit up and use it; there are some great step-by-step project examples and guides to get the most from the Raspberry Ptoo, Raspberry Pi Bertani 2 A, heatopanttemngtaryhz= Say Hello to Python) Getting to Know Python eMac ee eter tunlited eater kumar eiccteM a tar(ccd SoCo AURAL Men oe mee Reon Lec lale(Uerel enlace] to understand. WHAT IS PROGRAMMING? Ithelps to understand what a programming language is before you try to learn one, and Python is no different. Let's take a look at how Python came about and how it relates to other languages. ‘A programming language isa listof instructions that ‘a computer follows. These instructions can be as simple as displaying your name or playing a music file, or ascomplexas building a ‘whole virtual world. Python isa programming language conceivedin the late 1980s by Guido van Rossum PROGRAMMING RECIPES Programsare ke recipes for computers. recipe to bake a cake could go like this: 2 Put 100 grams of selfaising flourin a bow ‘Add 100 grams of butter tothe bowl, ‘Add 100 mlliitres of milk. Bake for half an hour, CODE Just lke a recipe, @ program consists of instructions that you follow at Centrum Wiskunde & inorder. A program that describes acake might run tke this Informatica (CW inthe ae Netherlands aa sucessorto bout = OL fe the ABClanguose ES ees patel BE mnmner Guido van Rossum, the Father of Python. ‘bo .append([flour, butter mic] Il cake. cookCbon) PROGRAM COMMANDS You might not understand some of the Python commands, lke bowl append and cake.cook(bowl) The firsts alist, the second an object; we'l look at bath inthis book. The main thing to know is that it’s easy to read commands in Python. Once you learn what the commands do, i's easy to Figure out how a program works, 00 tn ites one 4HIGH-LEVEL LANGUAGES Computer languages that are easyto read are known as high evel Thisis because they fly high above the hardware (also referred to as ‘the metal’) Languages that fly close to the metal lke Assembly, ‘are known as “low-level”. Low-level languages commands read abit like this:msg db ,@xa len equ $ = msg, 2 PYTHON 3 VS PYTHON 2 Peon u i ent ieee aT es ee Lene! WORLD OF PYTHON erates Cae! at eee ete perintothe Python ste eretscen PYTHON 2. erie nt is deed eee es Se de eee able resource. (cetinstornowxion CE ZEN OF PYTHON Python lets you access all the power of a computer in language that humans can understand, Behind all this isan ethos called "The Zen of Python." Ths sa collection of 20 software principles that influences the design ofthe language. Principles include “Beautiful isbetter than ualy" and "simple i better than complex." Type import: this into Python and it wil dsplay al the principles. ee eg Td PYTHON 3.X UPauguenE eae Rae einige Pen te et Fe stable, effective and efficient p eerste ces gs Poco ripts, modules and tutorial eet eee ee eng thon programming 3.X WINS elueueeemain Petre Sue ththe rants eee eee ei hited Python 3 For snippets of important code,z= Say Hello to Python ) How to Set Up Python in Windows Windows users can easily install the latest version of Python via the main Python Downloads page. While most seasoned Python developers may shun Windows as the platform of choice for building their code, it’s still an ideal starting point For beginners. INSTALLING PYTHON 3.X ‘Microsoft Windows doesn't come with Python preinstalled as standard, so you're going to have to install it yourself manually. Thankfully, 5 an easy process to follow. FETSERD 2"tby opening your web browser to www.python. ‘0ra/downloads/. Look fr the button detailing the download link for Python 3.x. The latest version atthe time of \weting i 3.7.0 but as Python is frequently updated this may bea different version for you. Papeete! ee Pe ee ee eee cata ane eo aa es Click the Download button for version 3x, and save the file to your Downloads folder. When the fle is downloaded, double-click the executable and the Python installation wizard wil launch, From here you have two choices Install Now and Customise Installation, We recommend apting for the Customise instalation link. Gis Install Python 3.7.0 (32-bit) wind (Chae Pyne 372 PH EZ) co's verre uid Series- volume 34 BRTERE RD Choosing the Customise option allows you to specify certain parameters, and whilst you may stay with the defaults, i's 2 good habit to adopt as sometimes (not ‘with Python, thankfully) installers can include unwanted additional Features. On the fist screen available, ensure all boxes ae ticked and click the Next button, Optional Features seamen ml Be amet mene yan ra a es tn) pythi wind D The nest page of optiosinclude some interesting ue additions to Python. Ensure the Associate file with Python, Create Shortcuts, Add Python to Environment Variables, recompile Standard brary and talfrAllser option are ticked. These make using Python ater much easier, ick nsalwhen youre ready to contrue ‘Advanced Options (acme fn fie py ae) hacen oemcen rane ml i [eager RoE — wind me Ora earHow to Set Up Python in Windows Cl 732i) ink wl EED icking on the IDLE (Python ication, Simply click launch the Python Shell, where you can begin the installation is complete _ your Python programming journey. Don't worry if your version is the Final Python wizard page will alow you to view the latest release aslong as it's Python 3.x our code works inside your notes, and Fllow some online tutorial Python 3 interface, Setup was successful m a - ° . pythén * windows oe Before you cose the install wizard window, you now click on the Windows Start button again SUS however, it's best to click on the link next to the SHEP) and this time type: CMD, you'll be presented with the shield detaled Dale ath Length Limit. This wil allow Python Command Prompt nk, Cck eto get tothe Windows comnmand tne to bypass the Windows 260 character limitation, enablingyou to environment. Toenter Python within the commandline, you ned execute Python programs stored indeepfeldersarangements. _totype: python and press Enter ‘Again, click Yes to authenticate the process; then you can Close the installation window. Wen © Disable path lenath limit Close Saas =o EE The command tine version of Python works in much the same way asthe Shell you opened in Windows 10 users can now Step 8; note the three leftfacing arcows (>>>). whilst t's a perfect find the installed Python exer) fine environment, i's not tao user-friendly, so leave the command 3.xwithin the Start button = line For now. Enter: exit to leave and close the Command cently Added section The First ink, Python 3.7 (32-bit will aunch the ‘command line version of Python when clicked (more ‘on that in a moment), To ‘open the IDLE, type IDLESay Hello to Python How to Set Up Python in Linux PYTHON PENGUIN Linux is such a versatile operating system that it's often difficult to nail down just one way of doing something. Different distributions go about installing software in different ways, but for this particular tutorial, we will stick to Linux Mint. PEPER Fistyounced to ascertain which version of Pyth iscurrently installed in your Linux system. To begin ‘with, drop into a Terminal session From your distro's menu, or hitthe Ctrlsalte keys dovidedavid tine ~ Next enter python =-version into the Terminal STEP 2 screen. You should have the output relating to version 2x oF Python ithe splay By deta, mos nue dstios come with both Python 2 and 3, as there's plenty of code out there stil available For Python 2. Now enter: python3. =-versicn. avidodavid nine: ~ Inour case wehave both Python 2 and installed SUPE) As long as Python 3.x.xis installed, then the code in cur tutorials york es aways worth checking to see the cto has been updated withthe latest versions, enter; sudo apt=get update && sudo apt-get upgrade to update the system, vidi ine — ‘80M Definitive Guide Series- Volume 24 ‘Once the update and upgrade is complete, enter: SUED ytnona version santo see if Pytion 3x isupdated or even installed. Aslong as you have Python 3x, you're running the most recent major version, The numbers after the 3. indicate patches and Further updates. Often they/re unnecessary, but can contain vital new elements. ‘onever Fyouwantthe latest, cating edge SHaP5 version, you'll need to build Python from source. Stare by entering these commancs into te Terminal sudo opt-get install build-essential. checkinstalt Sudo opt-get install Libreadline-aplv2-dev Tibncursesw5-dev libssl-dev LibsqliteS-dev tk-dev ibgdon-dev Libe6-dev Tibbz2-devHow to Set Up Python in Linux (¢ (Open up your Linux web browser and go to the EE For the GUIIDLE, you'll need to enter the Following BED eon cowrioadpage:hetps//www.pythonora/ — Maal command nc the Terminal thePythonSourcewnaowTisepensecowriosadlosce to, swdoant-get: instal led choose location and tart the download process, ‘The DLE can then be started with the command: fde3.Note that IDLE runs different version from the one you installed from source. —— “dvoid in. -/oownlona/Pyhon 372 you've downloaded), To access the newly unzipped Folder, enter: cd“ ssssnnnsesnnses eassseneonestearess ssarsenene Python-3.Y.¥/. FEET) Youllalso need Pip (Pip installs Packages), whichis a tool to help you install more modules and extras. Enter: sudo apt-get install python3-pip IPs then installed, check For the latest update with pip3 install --upgrade pip ‘When complete, close the Terminal and Python 3 willbe available via the Programming section in your distro's menu. evident -Domiot Python 72 FEED Withinthe Python folder, enter: -/configure sudo make altinstall This could take a while, depending on the speed of your computer. (Once finished, enter: python3.7 ==version to check the latest installed version. You should now have Python 3,7 installed, ‘alongside older Python 3xx and Python 2. Installation of Python on mac0S can be done in much the same way as the Windows instalation, Simply go tothe Python webpage, hover your mouse pointer over the Downloads link and select Mac 0S x from the options. You will then be guided tothe Python releases For Mac versions and the necessary installers for macOS 64-bit, For 05 X 10. and later. wonabdmpubicatonscom“| have always wished for my computer to be as easy to use as my telephone; my wish has come true, because | can no longer figure out how to use my telephone.” — Bjarne Stroustrup (Developer and creator of C++) IE) 50s evecare ve 4Getting Started with Python cl Learning how to code may seem a little daunting at First. Thankfully, the Python language has been designed with simplicity in mind. Like most things, you need to start slow, learn how to get a result and how to get what you want from the code. Inthis section, we will cover the core concepts: saving and executing your code, variables, numbers and expressions, user input, conditions and loops. 30 Starting Python for the First Time 32 Your First Code 34 Saving and Executing Your Code 36 Executing Code from the Command Line 38 Numbers and Expressions 40 Using Comments 42 Working with Variables, 44 User input 46 Creating Functions 48 Conditions and Loops 50 Python Modulesz= Getting Started with Python ) : Starting Python for Ay the First Time a The Raspberry Pi offers one of the best all-round solutions For learning and coding on, Meneame ols enatieracn uci ekenecutticencel ce hit latest stable version of Python 3, which makes it a superb coding platform. STARTING PYTHON We won't go into the details of getting the Raspberry Pi up and running, there's plenty of material already available on that subject. However once you're ready, Fire up your Pi and get ready for coding. FETTER) With the Raspbian desktop loaded, click onthe BETERED or example, in the Shell enter: 242 "Menu button followed by Programming > Python 3 After pressing Enter, the next line wll display the (OLE. This will open the Python 3 Shel. Windows and Mac users can. answer: 4. Basically, Python has taken the ‘code’ and produced the Find the Python 3 IDLE Shell fram within the Windows Start button relevant output. ‘meni and via Finder. = PEPTPD) The shellis where you can enter cade andseethe — SSWB the python shall acts very much ike a calculator, responses and output of code you've programmed since code i basically a series of mathematical into Python. Thissakind of sandbox, where you're ableto try out interactions with the system. Integers, which ae the infinite some simple code and processes. sequence of whole numbers can easily be added, subtracted, multiplied and so on. ye Scare’ Screute™ or “Licaaat)* for sare snfomaton ET 220iStarting Python for the First Time Cl ESTER Wile thats very interesting i's not particularly exciting, Instead, try this print(*Hello everyone!”) Just enter it nto the IDLE as you id in the previous steps. case the Hello everyone! bit. >>> print("Hello everyone Hello everyone! >>> | licking on the Highlighting tab, However, we don't recommend that _asyou won't be seeing the same as our screenshots. pe caro uae aso 4 FETED ust lke most programs avaliable, regardless of the ‘operating system, there are numerous shortcut keys avallable. We don’t have room for them all ere but within the Options > Configure IDLE and under the Keys tab, you can see alist (of the current bindings. Fare You may have noticed the colour coding within the Python IDLE. The colours represent different elements of Python code. They ae: Black— Data and Variables Green ~Strings urple—Functions ‘Orenge-Commands Blue — User Functions Dark Red Comments Light Red ~ Error Messages IDLE Colour Coding [-eoteur [use tor [examples Daekred | Comments | ianeaber VAR FETETR Te Pithon IDLE is a power interface, and one that's actually been written in Python using ane (of the available GU! toolkits. Fyou want to know the many ins and ‘outs forthe Shell, we recommend you take afew moments to view ‘www.docs.python.org/3/library/idte.html, which details many of the IDLE’ FeaturesE) ceinstneawtnenn Your First Code Essentially, you've already written your First piece of code with the ‘print(“Hello ONT Mit ae efor M aS KN UN et] ColtT1 a ON A ee Lear Le Lirel ole 1a entering your code and playing around with some other Python examples. PLAYING WITH PYTHON wi most languages, computer or human, it’s all about remembering and applying the right words to the right situation, You're not born knowing these words, so you need to learn them. ESTED you've closed Python 3 IDLE, reopen itin PEPER vou can see that instead ofthe number 4, the “whichever operating system version you prefer. In ‘outputs the 2+2 you asked to be printed tothe the Shell enter the Familiar Following: screen. The quotation marks are defining what's being outputted tothe IDLE Shell to print the total of 2+2 you need to remove the quotes: print(2+2) print (“Hello”) a wma fr on ESTeE RD vst as predicted, the word Hello appearsin the BITE You can continue as such, printing 242, 46442343 Shellas blue text, indicating output from a string {and soon ta the Shell. An easier way is to.use a 's airy straightforward and doesnt require too much explanation. variable, which is something we wil cover in mare depth later. For Now try now, enter: print(*2+2") E220.7 (. Your First Cod (Your First Code Cl \hatyou have done here assign the tesa Susp and b two values: 2 and 2. These are now variables, which can be called upon by Python to output, add, subtract, divide dando anor slong ther numbers stay these, Try ths printCa) print(b) ei ‘The outputof the last step displays the current Bia values of both a and b individually, as you've asked them tobe printed separately. IFyou want to add them up, you can Use the following print(arb) ‘This cade simply takes the values of a and b, adds them together and outputs the result oe ba Se) oeue es en You cn ply around ith aferent kinds of variables Suze and the Print function. For example, you could assign variables for someone's name: nane="David” print(name) PEPEED Now let's add surname: ‘surnane="Hayward” print(surnane) ‘You now have two variables containing a frst name and a surname ‘and you can print them independently. 1 Ea sh Dt oom ns en TERED we were to apply the same routine as before, Using the + symbol, the name wouldn't appear Correctly in the output inthe Shell. Try it print (name+surname) You need a space between the two, defining them as two separate values and not something you mathematically play around with, print(name, surname) In Python 3 you can separate the two variables, with aspace using a comma: ‘Alternatively, you can add the space ourselves printCname+” “+surnane) ‘The use ofthe comma is much neater, as you can see. Congratulations, you've ust taken your First steps into the wide ‘world of Python ora vmpublcatnscomz= Getting Started with Python) Saving and Executing Your Code While working in the IDLE Shell is perfectly Fine For small code snippets, it’s not designed for entering longer program listings. In this section you're going to be introduced to the IDLE Editor, where you will eel chee u mee EDITING CODE You will eventually reach a point where you have to move on From inputting single lines of code into the Shell. Instead, the IDLE Editor will allow you to save and execute your Python code. First, open the Python IDLE Shell and when it’s up, dlickon File > New Fie. This will open a new window with Untitied as its name. Thisis the Python IDLE Editor and within it you can enter the code needed to create your Future programs. coamudsoon atria one toate iterate aati tingencone ene sca print(*Hello everyone!”) ET 200 re cate sees vole BSTESEDD You can see that the same colour coding isin place Inthe IDLE Editor asitisin the Shel, enabling you tobetter understand what's going on with your code. However, to ‘execute the code you need to first save it. Press FS and you get a ‘ave...Check box open,PE (_ Saving and Executing Your Code Cl Enter a name for your code, ‘print hello for ‘example, and clickon the Save button. Once the Python code is savedit's executed and the output will be detalledin the IDLE Shell In this case, the words Hello everyone! FETTER Thisishow the vast majority of your Python code willbe conducted. Enter it into the Editor, hit FS, save the code and look atthe output inthe Shell. Sometimes things will fer, depending on whether you've requested a separate window, but essentially that’s the process.’ the process we will Use throughout this book, unless otherwise stated Ifyou open the file Location ofthe saved Python code, youcan see that it ends in apy extension. Thisis the default Python file name. Any code you create will be whatever py and any code downloaded from the many Internet Python resource sites will be oy. Just ensure that the code is written for Python 3 Lets extend the code and enter afew examples MAD cm the previous tutor 0-2 be2 rnane="David” surnane="Haynard” print(nane, surname) print Casb) IF you press FS now youll be asked to save the file, again, as t's been modified from before. EATEEEDD vou click the Ok button, the Fle willbe ‘overwritten wit the new code entries, and ‘executed, withthe output in the Shell I’s not a problem with just these Few tines butf you weretto edt a larger file, overwriting can become an issue. Instead, use File > Save As from within the Editor tocreate a backup, ie EB Fame in ito Wn Now create new fle. Close the Eto, and open Suid anew instance (File > New File from the Shell). Enter the following and save tas hello.py: ‘a="Python” be"is” c="cool!” print(a, b, ¢) ‘You will use this code in the next tutorial ie Se Fart in Entre ars bee = we webineatisconGetting Started with Python Executing Code from the Command Line COMMAND THE CODE Using the code we created in the previous tutorial, the one we named hello.py, let’s see how you can run code that was made inthe GUI at the command line level. Ez Python, in Linux, comes with two possible ways o EED Now you'e atthe command tine we can stat ‘executing code via the command line, One of the Python, For Python 3 you need to enter the h Python 2, whilst the other uses the Python 3 libraries and python3 and press Enter. This wll put you into the ‘on. First though, drop into the command line or Terminal on ll, with the familar three right. Your operating system, mens EED sm here you're able to enter the code you've : looked at previously, suchas: Windows users will . an2 printCa) You can see that it works exactly the same. rmacOS users can get access 9 their command line by licking Go > Utities » Terminal ‘80M Definitive Guide Series- Volume 24Executing Code from the Command Line cl Now enter: ext to eave the commandtine Pon Suz session and return you back to the command prompt. Enter the Folder where you saved the code from the previous tutorial and list the available Files within; hopefully you should see the hello.py file, Sy From within the same Folder asthe code you're ‘ing to run, enter the Following into the python3 hello. py This wll execute the code we created, which to remind yous: ‘as"Python” i— c="cool!” print(a, b, ¢) Naturally since this is Python 3 code, usin ae works when you use the python3 command. IF you ike, try the same with Python 2 by entering: python hello.py EED ‘The result of running Python 3 cade From the Python 2 command lin is quite obvious, Whitt esn't error out in any way, due to the differences between the way Python 3 handles the Print command over Python 2, the result Using Sublime For the moment, open the isn'ta we expecte hellopy file, ED he Raspberry Pi, you're going to temporarily leave the Pi For the moment and use Sublime as an example that you don't necessarily need to use the Python IDLE. With the hello. file open alter itto include the Following: Since Sublime Text isnt available For name=input¢“What is your name? “) print(*Hello,”, name) Save the helio.py file and drop back tothe commandline. Now execute the newly saved code with python3 hello. py ‘The result willbe the original Python is cool! statement, togethe with the added input command asking you For your name, and displaying tin the command window.C7} Getting Started with Python Numbers and Expressions Met eeu oe Sara ure or con Ave ru RTT Cette ns MR ee ore Re aaa VEU CN es aoa ea ea en ETE es] at] lcm (oll) UN aU n eat MPAA Coma eo en UB COUN Cm IT’S ALL MATHS, MAN You can get some really impressive results with the mathematical powers of Python; as with most, if not all, programming languages, maths isthe driving Force behind the code. BETTE open upthe Gul version of Python3,asmentioned IM You can use all the usual mathematical operations: ‘you can use either the Shell or the Editor. For the divide, multiply, brackets and so on, Practise with a time being, you're going to use the Shelljust to warm our maths ew, For example: ‘muscle, which we believe isa small gland located atthe backoFthe 4 brain (or not). 62 24283 Gs2)+"4) FETED |" the Shell enter the Following: BRTEEE MD Youve no doubt noticed, division produces a decimal number. In Python these are called fats, = ‘or floating point arithmetic. However, you need an integer as SSseesssz05 Shports decal ner tenn oe adoue sak vr You can see that Python can handle some quite large numbers. ET 220. cine sees vole‘You can also use an operation to see the remainder leftover From dhision, For example: 10/3 ‘ill display 3,333333333, which is of course 3.3-ecurting. you nowenter: 1083, ‘This will display 1, whichis the remainder let over From dividing 10 into 3, FETED Nex up we have the power operator, or ‘exponentiation if you wantto be technical. To work ‘ut the power of something you can use a double mutiplcation symbol or double-star onthe keyboard 203 3010 Essentially, i's 22x2 but we're sure you already know the basics bind maths operators. This show you would workt ou in Python. bing) C Numbers and Expressions Cl This wl be displayed as'0b11 converting the piEtg integer into binary and adding the prefix Ob to the Fron. Fyouwantt remove the Ob pref then you can use: format(3, *b’) ‘The Format command converts value, the number3,toa Formatted representation as controlled by the Format specification, the ' part. ‘Boolean Expression isa logical statement that will either be true or false. We can use these to compare data and test to see ifit’s equal to, less than or greater than. Try this inaNew File a=6 be? print(1, print(2, print, a == 6) a== 7) a == 6 and b == 7) print(4, a == 7 and b == 7) print(5, not a == 7 and b == 7) print(6, a print(?, print (8, print, Execute the code from Step 9, and you can see a series of True or False statements, depending on the result of the two defining values: 6 and 7. t's an extension of ‘what you've looked at, and an important part of programming. webineatisconC7} Getting Started with Python Using Comments Ue A OMAN IE cn URC come Ci inl Oey acl e ate NNEC Aol mice Mle mn Tet Coico Mey code line by line but over time, it can become difficult to read. #COMMENTS! Programmers use a method of keeping their code readable by commenting on certain sections. Ia variable is used, the ‘programmer comments on what it’s supposed to do, for example. I's just good practise. Stary cetng anew stance ofthe LE EBRor Su (File > New File) and create a simple variable and pane conman 10 print(“The value of A is,”, a) Save the file and execute the code, BEER Penning the code will return the line: The value of A is, 10intothe IDLE Shell window, which is what we ‘expected, Now, add some ofthe types of comments you'd normally see wichin code: # Set the start value of A to 10 o=10 # Print the current value of A print(“The value of A is,”, a) 22st Resave the code and execute. You cansee that the Burs) ‘output in the IDLE Shell is still the same as before, despite the extra lines being added. Simply put, the hash symbol (#) denotes atin of text the programmer can inset ifort, and others oF what's going on tout te user beng aware, ff yen 42 sal (ie Et Se Gets ene ren BRTEEE MD ets assume that the variable A that we've created Is the number of lvesina game. Every time the player dies, the value is decreased by 1. The programmer could insert aroutine along the lines of na-1 printC*You've just lost a life!”) printC*You now have”, a, “Lives left!”)¢ Using Comments Cl Whilst we know thatthe variable is lves, and thatthe player has just lost one, a casual viewer or ‘someone checking the code may not know. Imagine for a moment that the code i twenty thousand ines long instead of just our seven, You can see how handy comments are Essentially, the new code together with comments Bisa could look tke: # Set the start value of A to 10 0-10 # Print the current value of A print(“The value of A is,”, a) # Player lost a life! ona-1 # Inform player, and display current value of A lives) print(*You’ve just lost a life!”) printC*You now have”, a, “Lives teft!”) You can use comments in different ways, For example, Black Comments are a large section of text that details what's going on in the code, such as telling the code reader what variables you're planning on using! 4 This is the best game ever, and has been developed by a crack squad of Python experts # who haven’t slept or washed in weeks. Despite being very smelly, the code at Least # works really well. Inline comment re comments that follow section Sus of code. Take our examples from above, instead oF inserting the code on a separate line, we could use: =10 # Set the start value of A to 10 printC*The value of A is,”, a) # Print the current value of A ‘a-a-1 # Player lost a life! printC*You’ve just Lost a life!” printC*You now have”, a, “Lives Left!") # Inform player, and display current value of A (lives) FATED the comment, the hash symbol, can also be used to comment out sections of code you don't want to be ‘executed in your program. For instance if you wanted to remove the Fist print statement, you would use: # print(“The value of A is,”, a) I [eset the start value of A to 10 10 [e Peine the current value of A # printc"The value of A is)", ai] layer lost’ a life! fF Inform player, and display current value of A (Lives) Prant("You've just lost life!" Print(-You non have". a, “lives left!*) ‘Youalso use three single quotesto comment Suid ‘out a Block Comment or multiline section of comments, lace them before and afer the aresyou want to comment for them to work This is the best gane ever, and has been developed by a crack squad of Python experts who haven't slept or washed in weeks. Despite being very smelly, the code at Least works really Well. ———C7} Getting Started with Python Working with Variables AWARE Toney) LLYN 1) CoM Role Mm eon Reele|F-]kr-[eh aot ele S romantic cna ener ees iecieta) NU TON CUT oe VARIOUS VARIABLES You'll be working with the Python 3 IDLE Shell in this tutorial. IF you haven't already, open Python 3 or close down the pr IDLE Shelt to clear up any old code. Insome programing languages ore required Su" to.use a dollar sign to denote a string, which is a vavble made up of motile characters suchas a name of person, InPythonths bt necessry. For example inthe Shel enter name="David Hayward” (or use your own name, unless you're: eocaled Dad Hayuad, Bere You can check the type of variable in use by issuing the type () command, placing the name of the variable inside the brackets. In our example, this would be: ‘type name). Adda new string variable: title="Descended from Vikings”. ED sows vetnine cide Series- volume 34 Youve seen previously that arabes canbe Buss) concatenated using the plus symbol between the variable names. In our example we can use: print Cname + : * + title). The middle part between the quotations allows us to adda colon anda spice, as varibles are conected wut space, soweneedto ad them manvaly, 1s ES) oy Sts om EE You can also combine variables within another variable. For ‘example, to combine both name and tile variables into anew variable we use: bao es Bis a charactersnane +“: + title ‘Then output the content of the new variable as: print character) Numbers are stored as different variables: oge=44 Type Cage) Wich are integers as we know.0 ESTEE However, you can't combine both strings and integer type variables inthe same command, a5 You ‘would a set of similar variables. You need to either turn one into the ‘other oF vice versa, When you do try to combine both, you get an error message: print Cname + age) Bisa ‘Thisis a process known as TypeCasting, The Python codes: print (character +“ is “+ str(age) +“ years old.") oryou can use: print (character, s*, age, “years old.") Notice again thatin the last example, you don’tneed the spaces between the wordsin quotesas the commastreat each argument toprint separately >>> print (nane + age) Traceback (most recent call last): File “". line 1, in rane (nave + age} Typetrror: Can't convert “int object to str implicitly SbSprane (enaracter +! ar" + str(age) #" years old David Hayward: Descended fran Vikings is 44 years old. doo prant (character, "is", age, "years old.") David Hayward: Descended trom Vikings is 44" years old. ‘nother example of ypCasting when you askfor Suze input From the user, such as a name. for example, enter ‘age= input (“How old are you? *) All data stored from the Input commands stored asa string variable. fle Eat Shel Debug Options wndows ee Tule, 0ce 9 3078, THAT ae = Thispesets bit ofa problem whenyou want to Sus work with a number that's been inputted by the use. a5 ge + 10 wont work dve to beng 2sting arabe endan integer stead, you reed enter: intCage) + 10 ‘This will TypeCast the age string into an integer that can be ‘worked with. typettrer: can't cnwert "int" abject to str implicitly el ‘The use of TypeCasting is also important when Siar) dealing with floating point arithmetic; remember: numbers that have a decimal point in them. For example, enter: shirt=19.99 Now enter type(shint) and you'llse that Python has allocated the number as a float’, because the value contains a decimal point. le Eat shed Debug Options windows Help Python = (eens. Hype Sepprighe™ "eresite- or “License for mare information 33 petaniee) clas “fiat Z (aetaulk, Oct 18 2014, THRTTD ‘online nah auctor le E6t shel sua Optons windows ep ythan 3-43 (Seta, Bet 1 BONE, THRTTID (ee2.5°4) op tina ihe", Neredsts” or “License()” for more information. 55> Sypetantee) claet feat’? ———— (Working with Variables ClC7} Getting Started with Python User Input WATE TE Co) uid erie a ee Cen eR pea Reels ice ACR a eel oy earlier, so now would be a good time to Focus solely on how you would get information Pema cere ate ccnals USER FRIENDLY The type of input you want from the user depend greatly on the type of program you're coding. For example, a game may ask for a character's name, whereas a database can ask For personal details. BETSEDD is notalreads open the Python 31DLE Shell and start a New File inthe Editor. Let's begin with something really simple, enter: printc*Hetto”) firstnane=inputC*What is your first name? “) print¢*Thanks.") surnane=input(“And what is your surname? ) PEPPER save and execute the code, and as you already no doubt suspected, in the IDLE Shel the program will ask for your first name, storing itas the variable irstname, followed by your surname; also store in its own variable (curname). Fee yw sr nt T2204 "Now that we have the user'sname stored in a couple of variables we can call ther up whenever Siar) we want: printC*Welcone”, firstname, surname, “. T hope you're well today.”) FID rece yen cance shu oe ED so sect Toe tanec en print(‘Welcone”, firstnane, surnames. I hope you're well. today.")(User input Cl iG iP You don'tatways have to include quoted text within SAME out comand: For exarole, youcanaskthe user their name, and have the input inthe line below: print(*Hello. What’s your name?”) ‘nane=inputC) useringutpy - Jhome/pi/Documents/Python Code/us [Ele Edt Format fun Options windows Help ‘prant( Hello. Whats your nane?™) Panes input What youve created hres condon, which we Sus will cover soon. In short, we're using the input From theuser and measuring gansta condtion So, te user enters Davids the name, the guard willow them to pass unhindered Else, iF they enter aname other than David, the guard challenges, them toa fight. ESTEE The code from the previous steps often regarded asbeing alittle neater than having a lenathy ‘amount of text in the input command, butt’s not arule that's setin stone, so do as you lke in these situations. Expanding an the code, tay this print(“Halt! Who goes there?") ‘names input est Farmat Bin Stans wrsone 6p PEPIIED |: 2 g00d start to atext adventure game, perhaps? Now you can expand on it and use the raw input from the user to flesh out the game ite: ‘if name=="David”: print(*Welcome, good sir. You may pass.”) else: printC*I know you not. Prepare for battle!’ ESTEE ustes you learned previously, any input from a Users automatically a string, o you need to apply 2 ‘TypeCast in order to turn it into something else. This creates some Interesting additions to the input command. For example: # Code to calculate rate ond distance rint(*Input a rate and a distance”) rate = float CinputC*Rate: “)) rere year e rience Focus feaecimpereate: PETTSET DD 1 finalise the rate and distance code, we can ad distance = floatCinput(“Distance: “)) + Cdistance / rate)) Save and execute the code and enter some numbers. Using the Float(input element, we've told Python that anything enteredis a Floating point number rather than a string, print “Time: webineatisconC7} Getting Started with Python Creating Functions Now that you've mastered the use of variables and user input, the next step is to tackle CMten toa UA LMU EMM edo eee A Sn eco Te ol aa esTe.A) enables you to define your own Functions. FUNKY FUNCTIONS A function works on it and then returns the result, ‘2 command that you enter into Python to do something. Its a little piece of self-contained code that takes data, Iesnotjst tathat a funtion works on. They can Su" do all manner of useful things in Python, such as sot data change tems fom oneormattosnather and check the length or type of tems. Basically, a function is a short word that's Followed by brackets, For example, len0, list) or typed). FETED A function takes data, usually a variable, works on it depending on what the Function is programmed todo and,eturns the end value. The data being worked an goes Inside the brackets, so ifyou wanted to know how many letters are in the word antidisestablishmentarianism, then you'd enter: ‘Len¢“antidisestablishmentarianisn’) and the number 28, would return, NT 220i sees vole ‘You can pass variables through Functions in much BALE the came manner Letsassume you wantthe number of letters ina person's surname, you could use the following «ode (enter the text editor for tis example): ame=input (“Enter your surname: “) count=Len(name) print C*Your surname has“, count, “Letters in a) Press FS and save the code to execute it. Python has tens of functions builnt it, Fartoo ‘mary to getintoin the limited space available here. However, to view thelist of bultin functions available to Python 3, navigate to wowv.docs.python.org/3ibrary/Functions.html. These are the predefined functions, butsince users have created many ‘more, they're nat the only ones availabe.creatngrincions CEE Additional Functions can be added to Python through modules, Python has a vast range of ‘modules availabe that can cover numerous programming duties, They add Functions and can be imported as and when required, For example, to use advanced mathematics Functions enter ‘import math (Once entered, you have access tall the Math module functions Tose function from a mackie enter the name of Sua the module Followed by a full stop, then the name ‘of the Function. For instance, using the Math module, since youve just imported it into Python, you can utilise the square root Function Todoso, enter math. sqreCi6) ‘You can see thatthe code is presented as module function(data. FORGING FUNCTIONS ‘There are many different Functions you can import created by other Python programmers and you will undoubtedly come ‘across some excellent examples in the Future; you can also create your own with the def command. erica eee et eet erect Dae, food ee etree cens variable, the user's name for example. Edit roe Thi Hello Oe eae oer eee en) eet eee eee ie een teteee eer egress HelloC*David") eee STEP 4 usa eee gre ont Pe nee crate to.say hello to David. This is how modules and functions work: you ete Cee ee te eetestsC7} Getting Started with Python Conditions and Loops Conditions and loops are what makes a program interesting; they can be simple or rather complex. How you use them depends greatly on what the program is trying to achieve; they could be the number of lives left in a game or just displaying a countdown. TRUE CONDITIONS Keeping conditions simple to begin with makes learning to program a more enjoyable experience. Let's start then by checking if something is TRUE, then doing something else if it is't. Lets ceate new Python program that wilask Now youcan wean fstaterent to check the Su" the user to input a word, then check it to see iF it's Buss) word_length variable is equal to four and print afourletter word or not. Start with File> New File, and begin with Friendly conformation iit applies to the rule ee ero wordsinputC“Please enter a four-letter word: “) word=input(“Please enter a four-letter word: “) word_Length=len(word: ‘if word_length print (word, “is a Four-Letter word. Well done.”) ‘The double equal sign (- something ele means checkif something is equal to PEPIIPD ow we can create anew variable, then use thelen [EBB the colon at the end off tells Python that if this Function and pass the word variable through it to statements true do everything after the colon get the total number of letters the user has just entered: that's indented, Next, move the cursor backto the beginning of —— = the Editor wordsinput(“Please enter a four-letter word: “) word_lengthelen(word) wordsinput(“Please enter a four-letter word: “) word_Length=LenCword) if word_length == 4: print (word, “is a four-letter word. Well 7 done.) else: print (word, “is not @ four-letter word.”) 220i cites vole