The best way to learn Python

for the absolute beginners and improvers

Before the talk, I want to know...

So... If you want to learn Python from scratch

Classes / Courses

Classes / Courses

  • Structured progression
  • Concept explained by experts
  • Hands-on exercise via homework
  • Motivated to make progress
  • Can be costly
  • Can be not as flexible
  • Can be time consuming
  • Can be outdated

Meetup / Conferences

Meetup / Conferences

  • Socialization / Friendship
  • Get a wide varity of knowledge
  • Stay up to date
  • Most meetups are free (with free food)
  • Can be less hands-on (except sprints)
  • Can be not accessible (travel etc)
  • Can be difficult to follow

What if I want more...

Imporving your knowledge about Python

Online googling

Online googling

  • Mostly free
  • Looking for specifics
  • Stackoverflow has good Q&As to look for
  • Blog posts can be very DEEP
  • Has to ask the right question
  • Can take some time (you better like reading)
  • No fact check
  • Can be outdated

Self investigation

Self investigation

  • CPython source code is on GitHub
  • dir() does not need internet
  • Stick with your for longer
  • Feeling smart when you figure it out yourself
  • Need to know where to start
  • Can be even more confusing
  • Can be a hit or miss

Where can I find help?

Stackoverflow?

Stackoverflow?

  • Big community
  • Knowledgable people there
  • May get answer quickly
  • Sacry for beginner
  • Frown upon if people think your question is "not good"
  • Can be toxic

GitHub?

GitHub?

  • May also report a bug
  • Maintainers can be helpful
  • Help others who may also struggle with the same thing
  • Need to ask in the right repo
  • Maintainers are busy
  • May takes a long time to get an answer

Discord?

Discord?

  • There is asking for help mechanic there (Python Discord)
  • Huge community
  • Voice chat may also be avaliable
  • Answers are not kept as record
  • Can have a lot of noises
  • Please don't DM people to ask questions

Finding a mentor

If you are lucky enough to have one

Finding a mentor

If you are lucky enough to have one

  • Can also be your best friend
  • May also provide other support (emotional?)
  • Personal connection
  • People are busy (be greatful when you get help)
  • Difficult to find one
  • It's a relationship you may want to maintain

Which one are you going to try next?

Remember, you are not alone...

the community is here to help

 

Pyjamas Conf 2021

 

4th December 2021, worldwide, 24 hours streaming, FREE

https://pyjamas.live