Python as a Programming Language
• Python is a powerful, user-friendly programming language. It stands out
for its readability and extensive libraries.
• Its versatility extends to many applications such as web development,
data science, artificial intelligence, and automation.
• Python's open-source nature is coupled with an active community,
making it a valuable skill for students like you, pursuing diverse career
paths.
• The latest version of Python is 3.13.
• Python is an interpreted language which means its source code is
executed line by line by an interpreter, as opposed to being compiled into
machine code before execution.
History of Python
• Python was initially designed by Guido Van Rossum in 1991 and developed
by Python Software Foundation. It was mainly developed for emphasis on
code readability, and its syntax allows programmers to express concepts
in fewer lines of code.
• Python was a successor to the ABC programming language which was
capable of exception handling and interfacing with the Amoeba operating
system.
• On October 16 of 2000, Python 2.0 was released and it had many major
new features including cycle-detecting garbage collector for memory
management and support for Unicode.
• Python 3.0 also called Py3k was released on 3 December 2008. It was
designed to rectify the fundamental flaw of the language.
• The latest version of Python is 3.12.0 released on October 2, 2023.
What is Python?
High Level Interpreted Object Oriented
Language Language Language
• Python uses • Python is processed • In Python, everything
common English at runtime by the is treated as an
words in its code, interpreter without object, mirroring
making it readable. needing a compiler. real-world entities.
• Python is known for • Unlike compilers that • Objects possess
its simplicity, translate the entire both characteristics
readability, and code before and actions.
ease of use, making execution, Python's • Example: Car with
it a popular choice interpreter processes characteristics like
for beginners as well code line by line at model, year, color
as experienced runtime and actions like
developers. drive and turn.
What is Python?
Interactive Dynamically Typed Updates of
Language Language Language
• In Python, you can • In Python, think of a • Latest version of
chat directly with variable as a box Python is 3.12.0.
the computer using that holds data • The next major
a prompt, typing (numbers, words, release, Python 3.13,
your instructions etc.). is expected to be
and getting instant • Python variables can released in October
responses which hold different types, 2024.
makes it an with the type
interactive interpreted when
language. you run the program.
Python Features
Free and Open Object Portable
Source Oriented Language
• Python and its • In Python, everything • Python is an open-
source code are is like an object - like source language.
available to the things in the real We can run Python
public for free. No world. on Windows, Mac,
need to buy a costly Linux or any other
license. platform
Python Features
Large Library GUI Programming Beginner’s
Language
• Pre-defined • Python allows the • Learning Python is
functions in Python creation of GUI like learning a
library can be used (Graphical User simple language.
to write code Interface)
without having to applications with
write code from features such as
scratch. icons and buttons.