Why Study Python Basics?

Python is one of the most versatile and beginner-friendly programming languages. It’s widely used in web development, data science, artificial intelligence, and automation. Learning Python basics helps you build a solid foundation, making it easier to grasp advanced concepts. Python’s real-world relevance ensures career growth in various tech domains.

What Will Be Covered?

• Variables and data types in Python.
• Conditional statements for decision-making.
• Loops for repetitive tasks.
• Functions to create reusable and organized code blocks.

1. Understanding Variables and Data Types

A variable in Python is a container used to store data. The type of data a variable can hold is defined by its data type. Here are some key data types in Python

String: Represents text.

name = "Alice"
print(type(name))  # Output: <class 'str'>

Integer: Represents whole numbers.

age = 20
print(type(age))  # Output: <class 'int'>

Float: Represents decimal numbers.

height = 5.9
print(type(height))  # Output: <class 'float'>

Boolean: Represents True or False values.

is_student = True
print(type(is_student))  # Output: <class 'bool'>

2. Control Flow with Conditional Statements

Conditional statements enable your program to make decisions based on conditions

If Statement:

age = 18
if age >= 18:
    print("You are eligible to vote.")

If-Else Statement:

marks = 45
if marks >= 50:
    print("You passed!")
else:
    print("You failed.")

3. Loops for Repeating Tasks

Loops help automate repetitive tasks. Python supports two main types of loops:

For Loop:

for i in range(5):
    print(f"Iteration {i}")

While Loop:

count = 0
while count < 5:
    print(f"Count is {count}")
    count += 1

4. Functions: The Building Blocks of Reusable Code

Functions allow you to break down your code into smaller, reusable blocks.

Defining a Function:

def greet(name):
    return f"Hello, {name}!"

print(greet("Alice"))

Using Functions to Simplify Logic:

def calculate_square(number):
    return number ** 2

print(calculate_square(4))  # Output: 16

Summary

• Variables and data types allow Python to manage and manipulate data.
• Conditional statements enable decision-making within programs.
• Loops automate repetitive tasks effectively.
• Functions organize code and promote reusability.

Learning Outcomes

By completing this topic, learners will be able to:

1. Create Python programs using variables and data types.
2. Write conditional statements to control the flow of a program.
3. Implement loops to automate repetitive tasks.
4. Use functions to write modular and efficient code.

Common Interview Questions

1. What are the differences between a list and a tuple in Python?
   • Answer: Lists are mutable, meaning they can be modified after creation, while tuples are immutable.
2. How does Python handle variable declaration?
   • Answer: Python doesn’t require explicit declaration; variables are created automatically when assigned a value.
3. Write a Python program to check whether a number is odd or even.

Practice Exercises

1. Write a Python program that calculates the factorial of a given number.
2. Create a program to find the largest number in a list.
3. Develop a function that checks whether a string is a palindrome.

Additional Resources

• Books: “Python Crash Course” by Eric Matthes
• Online Tutorials: Python Official Documentation
• Practice Platforms: HackerRank, LeetCode

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