If you want to learn how to code, there’s no easier language to learn first than Python.
It was the most popular language of 2018 for coders, and there’s no sign of its popularity dropping. The barrier to entry is low, and you can use Python to build almost any program you like.
That’s what makes Python so appealing to new coders, but do you know the best way to learn?
Don’t worry, because here are the 5 best ways to learn Python in 2019.
Go Back to School
If you prefer to learn in a more traditional learning environment, then you should consider going back to school and learning python from a local college or training provider.
Courses like this offer structure, commitment, and help for potential coders looking for the best way to learn Python. The investment of time (and likely money) helps you to learn around existing priorities like work or childcare.
It’ll also help you beat procrastination if you’re worried about giving up.
Code Your Own Projects
Not keen on the classroom? Learn by doing instead and get involved with Python programming by coding your own projects.
They might be for you or for somebody else, but learning this way can turn your learning from theoretical to practical. It helps you understand the coding cycle, and should encourage you to finish and improve as you go.
Consider using Python to build a website or create an app for your desktop or smartphone, for instance. If you want to get into app development, here are 7 things you need to know about building an app.
Take Online Courses
Beginner programmers without any past experience will feel like a fish out of water learning to code, even with a beginner-friendly language like Python. If that’s the case, think about taking some online courses.
They can help you learn the theoretical basics that apply to all languages. It might make Python tricker to understand at first, but if you want to understand how your code works, they’ll make you a better programmer.
Many online courses also offer an interactive element, where you can learn as you code. This will help you get the best balance between lectures and practice.
Get Inquisitive
Don’t know how to do something? Rather than struggling on your own, one of the best resources to learn Python is through online communities.
Start asking questions. Learn the lingo and take advantage of helpful communities like Reddit and Stack Overflow to build your Python knowledge further. If you’ve got a specialist interest, seek out web resources to help you.
Specializing in niches like data science or AI can help you attract big salaries if you’re looking for a new career.
Team up with Others
Coding can be a solitary affair, but it doesn’t have to be. If you want to learn in good company, then team up with other learners.
You could learn over a shared project, a networking group online, or with regular coding meetups. You could even pair with another learner to encourage and support each other.
Not only is it a great way to keep your learning focused and on track but it can also help you network with people for jobs and to make like-minded new friends.
The Best Ways to Learn Python Depend on You
Python is an impressively powerful programming language. It’s simple, quick to learn, and powerful enough to handle everything from statistical analysis to web development.
The best ways to learn Python, however, depend on you. If you need a classroom, go back to a college and take some courses. If you’d rather learn by doing, then build your own projects and start asking questions.
The more you try, the more you’ll learn. Check out some of our other technology articles for other ways you can put your tech skills to good use.