Python is one of the most beginner-friendly programming languages, and its widespread popularity has led to the development of a vast array of resources to help people learn it from scratch. Whether you're a teacher looking for resources to support your students or a beginner yourself, the right online tools can make all the difference.
In this post, we'll explore some of the best online platforms and resources that offer comprehensive and accessible Python learning materials. These resources range from interactive coding platforms to video tutorials and structured courses. Plus, they are all available online right now!
1. Codecademy: Python 3 Course
Codecademy is one of the most popular platforms for learning coding interactively. Their Python 3 course is designed specifically for beginners and provides step-by-step lessons with real-time coding practice. The course covers the basics of Python programming, including data types, control flow, functions, and modules, making it an excellent starting point for new learners.
- Key Features: Interactive lessons, immediate feedback, real-world projects
- Cost: Free (basic), paid options for pro features
- Link: Codecademy Python 3
Example Exercise from Codecademy:
# Example task: Define a function that returns the sum of two numbers.
def add_numbers(a, b):
return a + b
# Test the function
print(add_numbers(3, 5)) # Output: 82. Python.org: Official Python Documentation
For those who prefer a more text-based, comprehensive learning approach, Python’s official documentation is one of the best resources. The Python.org website includes a dedicated section for beginners, covering everything from installation to basic programming concepts. The "Python for Beginners" guide introduces users to simple Python scripts and functions and is an excellent resource for teachers looking for authentic material.
- Key Features: Official tutorials, beginner-friendly explanations, full documentation
- Cost: Free
- Link: Python for Beginners
Example from Python.org:
# Simple Python script: print out all even numbers from 1 to 10
for i in range(1, 11):
if i % 2 == 0:
print(i)
# Output: 2 4 6 8 103. Coursera: Python for Everybody by the University of Michigan
If you're looking for a structured course with university-level instruction, Coursera’s Python for Everybody is a fantastic option. This series of courses, created by Dr. Charles Severance from the University of Michigan, covers everything from basic syntax to data structures and databases. The course is highly recommended for beginners and offers a certification upon completion.
- Key Features: Structured university-level course, video lectures, quizzes, assignments
- Cost: Free (audit), paid option for certification
- Link: Python for Everybody
Example from Coursera:
# Extracting data from a list
friends = ['Joseph', 'Glenn', 'Sally']
for friend in friends:
print('Happy New Year:', friend)4. Real Python: Tutorials and Learning Paths
Real Python offers a collection of in-depth articles and tutorials that are perfect for both beginners and those with some programming background. Their beginner tutorials cover fundamental Python topics, including variables, loops, data types, and more. The tutorials are well-organized into learning paths, making it easy for teachers and students to follow a structured curriculum.
- Key Features: Detailed tutorials, step-by-step explanations, beginner to advanced topics
- Cost: Free (some tutorials), paid for full access
- Link: Real Python: Beginner’s Guide
Example from Real Python:
# Example: Using list comprehensions in Python
squares = [x**2 for x in range(10)]
print(squares) # Output: [0, 1, 4, 9, 16, 25, 36, 49, 64, 81]5. W3Schools: Python Tutorial
W3Schools is a long-standing resource for learning web development, and it now offers a solid Python tutorial for beginners. It provides an interactive editor where users can run Python code in real time. Each topic includes clear examples, explanations, and exercises, making it a great tool for students who like hands-on learning.
- Key Features: Interactive examples, quizzes, and exercises
- Cost: Free
- Link: W3Schools Python Tutorial
Example from W3Schools:
# Example of using a while loop
i = 1
while i < 6:
print(i)
i += 1 # Output: 1 2 3 4 56. Kaggle: Python Course
Kaggle is primarily known for its data science and machine learning competitions, but it also offers a free Python course that’s perfect for beginners interested in data. The course includes interactive Jupyter notebooks that allow learners to write and run Python code directly in the browser, making it easy to practice concepts immediately.
- Key Features: Interactive coding, focus on data analysis, beginner-friendly
- Cost: Free
- Link: Kaggle Python Course
Example from Kaggle:
# Example: Load a dataset using pandas (a Python library for data analysis)
import pandas as pd
data = pd.read_csv("data.csv")
print(data.head()) # Print the first 5 rows of the dataset7. SoloLearn: Learn Python App
SoloLearn offers a gamified approach to learning Python. Their Python course is interactive and available via a mobile app, making it ideal for students who want to learn on the go. SoloLearn provides small bite-sized lessons and quizzes that help reinforce learning, and users can also interact with a community of other learners.
- Key Features: Mobile-friendly, gamified, interactive quizzes
- Cost: Free
- Link: SoloLearn Python
Example from SoloLearn:
# Example task: Convert kilometers to miles
km = float(input("Enter kilometers: "))
miles = km * 0.621371
print(f"{km} kilometers is equal to {miles} miles")Conclusion
There has never been a better time to start learning Python, with so many great online resources available. Whether you're a student starting your programming journey or an educator looking for structured materials, the platforms listed above provide high-quality content for every learning style. From interactive coding exercises to comprehensive tutorials and video courses, these resources will help you or your students master Python in no time!
Pick a platform that suits your learning style and start coding today!
