MODULE 1: Introduction to Python & Setup

Welcome to Module 1! Python is often the first choice for modern developers because it reads like English and powers the world’s most advanced technologies.

Here is a brief breakdown of each topic to get you started.

1. What is Python?

Python is a high-level, interpreted, general-purpose programming language. It focuses on code readability and allows you to express concepts in fewer lines of code than languages like C++ or Java.

2. History & Features

• History: Created by Guido van Rossum and first released in 1991. It was named after the comedy group “Monty Python.”
• Features: * Open Source: Free to use and distribute.
  • Dynamically Typed: You don’t need to declare variable types (e.g., int or string) manually.
  • Huge Library Support: Thousands of pre-built modules.

3. Why Python is Popular in 2026

In 2026, Python remains the #1 language due to its dominance in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Agentic Workflows. Its massive ecosystem (libraries like PyTorch and LangChain) and its ability to act as “glue code” for connecting different services make it indispensable.

4. Python Use Cases

• AI & Machine Learning: Building LLMs and neural networks.
• Data Analysis: Using pandas and matplotlib to visualize data.
• Web Development: Frameworks like Django and FastAPI.
• Automation: Writing scripts to handle repetitive tasks like renaming 1,000 files instantly.

5. Installing Python

• Windows/macOS: Download the installer from python.org. Ensure you check the box “Add Python to PATH” during installation.
• Linux: Usually pre-installed. Update via terminal: sudo apt-get install python3.

6. Python vs. Other Languages

7. Python Interpreters

An interpreter is the program that executes your code.

• CPython: The standard version.
• PyPy: Focused on speed.
• Interactive Mode: You can type code directly into a terminal (REPL) and get instant results.

8. First Python Program

To run your first script, create a file named hello.py and type:

Python

print("Hello, World!")

Run it in your terminal with: python hello.py

9. Understanding Python Syntax

Python uses indentation (whitespace) to define code blocks, unlike other languages that use brackets.

• Example:

Python

if 5 > 2:
    print("Five is greater than two!") # Indented 4 spaces

10. Python Execution Flow

Python code follows a specific path from your keyboard to the computer processor:

1. Source Code: You write .py files.
2. Bytecode: The interpreter converts your code into an intermediate form (.pyc).
3. Python Virtual Machine (PVM): The PVM reads the bytecode and executes it on your hardware.