We'd like you all to get acquainted with the basic syntax of Python so that you feel more comfortable in the workshop and we're able to build more cool stuff!!
Ideally you'd take a look at:
- Variables and Types
- Strings
- Loops
- Conditions
- Functions
- Dictionaries
Don't worry if you don't understand anything or you feel overwhelmed. You absolutely are not expected to be proficient in all of these by the time the workshop rolls around. We just want to give you a head start so that you find the workshop more interesting, and so that we can give you the best experience in the limited time we have.
- Learn Python This site takes the form of an online tutorial where you get to practice writing and executing code, right in the browser. It will give you a more hands-on introduction to the basics than the other listed resources.-> (Note: Leisurely)
- Learn Python the Hard Way This resource is aimed at beginners no matter what the name says. It's a joke because "The Hard Way is Easier". It will take you through the very basics of python at a pace well suited for people new to programming.-> (Note: Leisurely)
- Fast Lane to Python This introductory textbook will give you a moderately paced introduction to python, we recommend section 1.1 to 1.7. You might notice a few finer, more advanced points in the text, don't worry if it goes over your head.-> (Note: Moderate)
- Learn X in Y Minutes This will give you a whirlwind tour of the Python syntax, don't expect much detail from this but you will get a feel for the syntax.-> (Note: Very Fast)
- Feel free to use any other suitable resource you can find, to each his own!
If you're on a UNIX system, python is probably already on your system.
If you're on Windows:
This is a guide to install Cygwin, a software for Windows which gives you access to a Linux-like shell. We will be using Cygwin for both the Linux and Python sections of the workshop.