Definition

Python is a high-level, interpreted programming language known for its simple, readable syntax and versatility. Created by Guido van Rossum in 1991, Python emphasizes code readability and allows programmers to express concepts in fewer lines of code. It supports multiple programming paradigms including procedural, object-oriented, and functional programming.

Key Features

Simple Syntax: Easy to learn and read, similar to English
Interpreted: No compilation step needed, runs directly
Cross-Platform: Runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, and more
Extensive Libraries: Rich standard library and third-party packages
Dynamic Typing: Variables don't need explicit type declarations
Open Source: Free to use and modify

Example Code

# Basic Python syntax examples
print("Hello, World!")

# Variables and data types
name = "Alice"
age = 30
height = 5.6
is_student = True

# Lists and loops
fruits = ["apple", "banana", "orange"]
for fruit in fruits:
    print(f"I like {fruit}")

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

message = greet("Python Developer")
print(message)

# Dictionary (key-value pairs)
person = {
    "name": "John",
    "age": 25,
    "city": "New York"
}

# List comprehension
squares = [x**2 for x in range(1, 6)]
print(squares)  # Output: [1, 4, 9, 16, 25]

Popular Applications

Web Development: Django, Flask, FastAPI frameworks
Data Science: NumPy, Pandas, Matplotlib, Jupyter
Machine Learning: TensorFlow, PyTorch, scikit-learn
Automation: Scripting, testing, system administration
Desktop Applications: Tkinter, PyQt, Kivy
Game Development: Pygame, Panda3D

Popular Libraries & Frameworks

# Web Development
Django - Full-featured web framework
Flask - Lightweight web framework
FastAPI - Modern, fast web framework for APIs

# Data Science & ML
NumPy - Numerical computing
Pandas - Data manipulation and analysis
Matplotlib - Data visualization
TensorFlow - Machine learning platform
PyTorch - Deep learning framework

# Other Popular Libraries
Requests - HTTP library
BeautifulSoup - Web scraping
Pillow - Image processing
SQLAlchemy - Database toolkit

Career Impact

$95K

Average Python Developer Salary

#1

Learning Path

Install Python and set up development environment
Learn basic syntax, variables, and data types
Master control structures (if/else, loops)
Understand functions and modules
Learn object-oriented programming concepts
Explore popular libraries for your area of interest
Build projects and contribute to open source

Python