Python Basics for Beginners (Detailed with Examples)
1. Introduction to Python
Python is a simple and powerful programming language used in web development, data science, AI,
and more.
It has an easy-to-read syntax, making it a great choice for beginners.
Example:
# This is a comment in Python
print("Python is fun!")
Output:
Python is fun!
2. Writing Your First Python Program
To display something on the screen, we use the print() function.
Example:
print("Hello, World!")
Output:
Hello, World!
Explanation:
- The print() function is used to display text or values on the screen.
- Anything inside quotes (" ") is treated as text.
3. Variables and Data Types
Variables are used to store data. Python automatically detects the data type.
Example:
x = 10 # Integer
y = 3.5 # Float
name = "Alice" # String
is_student = True # Boolean
Explanation:
- Integer (int): Whole numbers, e.g., 10, -5, 1000.
- Float: Decimal numbers, e.g., 3.5, 2.0, -7.8.
- String: Text values enclosed in quotes, e.g., "Alice", "Python".
- Boolean: Represents True or False values.
4. Taking User Input
We can take input from the user using the input() function.
Example:
name = input("Enter your name: ")
print("Hello, " + name)
Explanation:
- input() takes user input as a string.
- The `+` operator joins (concatenates) the string with another string.
5. Operators in Python
Operators are used to perform calculations and comparisons.
Example:
a = 10
b=5
print("Addition:", a + b) # Output: 15
print("Subtraction:", a - b) # Output: 5
print("Multiplication:", a * b) # Output: 50
print("Division:", a / b) # Output: 2.0
print("Modulus:", a % b) # Output: 0
Explanation:
- `+` adds numbers.
- `-` subtracts numbers.
- `*` multiplies numbers.
- `/` divides numbers.
- `%` finds the remainder after division.
6. Conditional Statements (if-else)
Conditional statements help in decision-making.
Example:
age = int(input("Enter your age: "))
if age >= 18:
print("You can vote.")
else:
print("You cannot vote.")
Explanation:
- The `if` condition checks if the user is 18 or older.
- If the condition is true, it prints "You can vote."
- Otherwise, the `else` statement runs.
7. Loops in Python
Loops allow repeating a block of code multiple times.
For Loop Example:
for i in range(1, 6):
print(i)
Output:
Explanation:
- `range(1, 6)` generates numbers from 1 to 5.
- The loop prints each number one by one.
While Loop Example:
x=1
while x <= 5:
print(x)
x += 1
Output:
Explanation:
- The loop continues as long as `x` is less than or equal to 5.
- `x += 1` increases `x` by 1 in each step.
8. Functions in Python
Functions help organize and reuse code.
Example:
def greet(name):
print("Hello, " + name + "!")
greet("Alice")
Output:
Hello, Alice!
Explanation:
- The `def` keyword defines a function.
- The function `greet()` takes a parameter `name` and prints a message.
9. Lists in Python
Lists store multiple values.
Example:
fruits = ["Apple", "Banana", "Cherry"]
print(fruits[1]) # Output: Banana
Explanation:
- Lists are written in square brackets `[ ]`.
- Indexing starts from 0, so `fruits[1]` gives "Banana".
10. Dictionaries in Python
Dictionaries store key-value pairs.
Example:
student = {"name": "John", "age": 16, "grade": "A"}
print(student["name"]) # Output: John
Explanation:
- Dictionaries use `{}` and store data as key-value pairs.
- `"name"` is a key, and `"John"` is its value.
This guide includes detailed explanations and examples to help you learn Python better. Keep
practicing and happy coding!
