So you’ve decided to learn Python. Good job!
Python is one of the most popular languages which has enormous scope in the current job market and is the right choice for beginners. In fact, Python programmers are very much in demand these days and they get a high median salary because of Python’s wide applications in the field of Data Science, Machine Learning, and Web Development.
Before you embark on this journey of learning Python, here are the top 7 beginner tips to give you a headstart.
1. Ditch those Degrees
Technology changes in the blink of an eye and university programs can’t always keep up with it. In fact, top companies like Microsoft and Google (News - Alert) are now hiring based on skills rather than degrees.
You could be a school kid or someone wishing to restart your career with Python. Either way, online courses have proved to provide a head start. Enrol yourself in a Python course and begin learning right away.
2. Keep Short Term Goals and Score Quick Wins
When you’re learning Python on your own, it is easy to lose track. As a beginner, it is important to keep short term goals to lead you to your long term ones. Coding is exciting, as well as challenging. Confidence is key. You need to start smelling success to motivate yourself to do more. Start engaging yourself with small challenges and score quick wins at the beginning itself.
3. Go Hands-On
The best way to learn Python programming is by doing it. In today’s fast-paced world, going by books could leave you behind. When you step out into this field, you come across a lot of hurdles which can be crossed only through practice.
Instead of trying to grab all the theory, download a Python IDE and practice the stuff you learn from your Python training every day. Start with simple print statements, loops, data structures, and then build small projects in Python.
4. Attend Meetups
Meetups are a cool way to get in touch with the industry and get into the community. You’ll make new friends, find mentors and most importantly get inspired for sure.
Also, most meetups offer a lot of freebies like stickers, t-shirts, and food!
5. Form Study Groups
Remember the first few days at Kindergarten? You were in a completely new place with a lot of new people and exposed to something you have never experienced before. But what kept you going was maybe the relief that there were more kids like you.
Similarly, as a beginner in Python, people on the same path as you could ease up your journey and propel your growth. You resolve mistakes easily and learn from each other. Peer programming could help you build enthusiasm and make coding fun.
6. Overcome Imposter Syndrome
Do you doubt yourself if you’re capable of coding? With all the hype around software development, do you fear if this field is not right for you? Or do you doubt your accomplishments already?
Welcome to the club! Here it is common for even experts in the field to come across the imposter syndrome. You also need to figure out a way to overcome it. Get comfortable with your Python environment, plan your courses, set goals, surround yourself with smarter people, and motivate yourself to do better.
7. Build Projects
Once you’re done with the basic Python course, the next step is to start building projects. Some of the good mini projects include a hangman game, dice rolling simulator, and guess the number game. Take up bigger projects as you progress.
These projects could be showcased in your CV, portfolio, or somewhere like LinkedIn (News - Alert) or GitHub. In this way, employers get an idea of what you’re capable of and thus you have better chances to get hired.
8. Contribute to Open Source (News - Alert)
When software goes open source, its source code is public and anybody can collaborate. Many open source Python projects are available on platforms like GitHub and GitLab. These could be open source Python libraries or open source projects of different companies.
You could contribute by raising an issue and/or fixing it. For example, if you want to fix a bug, you raise an issue or submit a pull request. The company developers review your work, discuss and patch the fix.
Thus contributing to open source projects gives you invaluable experiences in Python programming.
Learn by Doing
Now that you’re well aware of the best strategies, you’re all set to learn.
Ready, steady, code Python.
