Python How to Program

Python How to Program provides a comprehensive introduction to Python programming through hands-on examples and practical applications. The book follows Deitel's signature "live-code" approach, presenting complete working programs alongside detailed explanations. The text covers core Python concepts including data types, control structures, functions, object-oriented programming, and data structures. Each chapter contains self-review exercises, programming challenges, and case studies that reinforce key concepts through real-world scenarios. Built-in Python modules, file processing, exception handling, and database connectivity are explored through concrete examples. The book includes coverage of GUI programming, data visualization, and web application development using Python frameworks. This educational text serves as both a tutorial and reference guide, emphasizing professional software development practices and problem-solving methodology. The focus on fundamentals combined with current programming techniques makes it relevant for beginning programmers and those transitioning from other languages.

Readers report the book provides comprehensive Python coverage but moves at a slow pace. Many found it too verbose for self-study. Liked: - Clear explanations of object-oriented concepts - Strong focus on testing and debugging - Includes data science and AI examples - High-quality exercise problems - Well-suited for classroom use with instructor guidance Disliked: - Excessive repetition and wordiness - Examples are longer than necessary - Too basic for experienced programmers - Price point ($120+) considered high - Some outdated Python 2.x content in older editions Ratings: Amazon: 4.1/5 (127 reviews) Goodreads: 3.7/5 (89 ratings) From reviews: "Great for beginners but takes 5 pages to explain what could be done in 1" - Amazon reviewer "The testing coverage helped me write better code, but the pace is glacial" - Goodreads user "Works as a textbook but not ideal for independent learning" - Python forums user

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🔹 Paul Deitel and his co-author Harvey Deitel have written more than 100 programming textbooks, with their books translated into multiple languages and used in universities worldwide. 🔹 The book employs a unique "live-code" approach, where concepts are explained through complete working programs rather than fragments, helping readers see the real-world application of each concept. 🔹 Python is named after the British comedy group Monty Python, not the snake, and the book includes occasional references to this heritage, making technical learning more engaging. 🔹 The first edition of Python How to Program was published in 2002 when Python was far less popular, showing the authors' early recognition of Python's potential as a teaching language. 🔹 The book incorporates artificial intelligence and data science examples, reflecting Python's dominant role in these fields - over 70% of AI developers use Python as their primary programming language.