Preface

Shortly after I started writing, a friend asked me if there really was a need of another Learning Python book.

An excellent question that we could also express in another form: What has this book to offer? What makes this book different from the average introductory book on Python?

I think there are two main differences and many good reasons why you would want to read it.

Firstly, we start with introducing some important programming concepts. We build a solid foundation by covering the critical aspects of this wonderful language.

The pace gradually increases, along with the difficulty of the subjects presented. By the end of Chapter 7, Testing, Profiling, and Dealing with Exceptions, we will cover all the fundamentals.

From Chapter 8, The Edges – GUIs and Scripts, onward, the book takes a steep turn, which brings us to difference number two.

To consolidate the knowledge acquired, there is nothing like working on a small project. So, in the second part of the book, each chapter delivers a project on a different subject. We explore scripting, graphical interfaces, data science, and web programming.

Each project is small enough to fit within a chapter and yet big enough to be relevant. Each chapter is interesting, conveys a message, and teaches something valuable.

After a short section on debugging, the book ends with a complete example that wraps things up. I tried to craft it so that you will be able to expand it in several ways.

So, this is definitely not the usual Learning Python book. Its approach is much more "hands-on" and practical.

I wanted to empower you to help you become a true Python ninja. But I also did my best to entertain you and foster your logical thinking and creativity along the way.

Now, have I answered the question?