Chapter 1: Introduction

1.1 How to Get Started with Python

Welcome to our comprehensive guide to getting started with Mastering Python Fundamentals – a step-by-step introduction to help you master the basics. Getting started with Python is straightforward, even if you’re new to coding or computers. Follow these step-by-step instructions to install Python on both Windows and Linux.

Installing Python on Windows

1. Download Python:

• Visit the official Python website.
• Click the “Download Python” button to start the download.

1. Run the Installer:

• Locate the downloaded file in your Downloads folder and double-click to start the installation.
• Important: Check the box that says “Add Python to PATH” before clicking “Install Now.”

1. Verify the Installation:

• Open Command Prompt by typing cmd in the Start menu.
• Type python --version and press Enter. You should see the Python version number displayed.

Installing Python on Linux

1. Open the Terminal:

• Press Ctrl + Alt + T to open the Terminal.

1. Update Your System:

• Type the following command and press Enter:
  bash sudo apt update

1. Install Python:

• Install Python by typing:
  bash sudo apt install python3

1. Install Dependencies:

• Install pip by typing:
  bash sudo apt install python3-pip

1. Verify the Installation:

• Check the Python version by typing:
  bash python3 --version

With Python installed, you’re ready to start coding!

1.2 Your First Program

Now that Python is set up, let’s create your first program.

Step 1: Open Your Text Editor

• Use a text editor like Notepad on Windows or Gedit on Linux.
• On Windows, open Notepad by searching for it in the Start menu. On Linux, open Gedit by typing gedit in the Terminal.

Step 2: Write the Code

• Type the following code in the text editor:

  print("Hello, World!")

• This simple line of code will display the message “Hello, World!” on your screen.

Step 3: Save the File

• Save the file as hello_world.py in a location you can easily find.

Step 4: Run the Program

• On Windows:
• Open Command Prompt, navigate to the file location using cd, and run the program by typing:
  bash python hello_world.py
• On Linux:
• Open Terminal, navigate to the file location using cd, and run the program by typing:
  bash python3 hello_world.py

You should see the message “Hello, World!” displayed on your screen, marking your first step into Python programming!

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Free Coding Tutorials: Mastering Python Fundamentals – Part 2 : Variables, Constants and Literals; Type Conversion; Basic Input and Output