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How to Learn Python: Expectations vs. Reality

How to Learn Python: Expectations vs. Reality

Python is a versatile modern programming language with many use-cases, which is why it might be a good idea for you and other aspiring developers to learn it, but what is the reality of learning Python, especially if it’s your first programming language? Your expectations might be off if all you’ve heard until now is that big companies like Google and Facebook use Python. After all,  does that mean Python is difficult to learn? Or, does that mean Python is the best programming language for you to learn? Here’s what you need to know about expectations vs. reality.

Expectation: Learn Python First, Then Other Programming Languages

Let’s start off with an easy one that you’ve probably heard before: You should learn Python first, then pick up on other programming languages. At Hackbright, we’re not going to tell you that this is bad advice, but this also doesn’t have to be the expectation. There are plenty of routes for future developers to take when choosing which programming languages to learn.

Reality: Learn Python First, Second, Twentieth… There’s Really No Right Answer

If you’re new to the world of programming and development, then you can learn Python first, but you can also learn Python as your second language after JavaScript or your twentieth language just for fun. There’s no right answer, and your decision on whether or not to learn Python early on will probably be influenced by your personal and professional goals.

Expectation: Picking Up Python Will Be Super Simple and Easy

Would-be Python learners may come to the language with this expectation based on Python’s online reputation for being a beginner-friendly coding language. While it is true that Python can be more forgiving when compared to other languages, it can also be frustrating. Like all programming languages, Python has strengths and weaknesses.

Reality: Python Is a Beginner-Friendly Coding Language That Still Requires Work

How quickly and to what degree you learn Python depends largely on how much time and effort you put into studying the programming language. Perhaps, the syntax and diction are easy for most people to understand and start implementing, but the logic and problem-solving that goes on behind the scenes will require you to work hard and apply yourself.

Expectation: You Can Teach Yourself Python Using the Internet

If we’re being honest, you can teach yourself many good things using the internet, including Python, but, if we’re being honest, the internet may not be the best place for people prone to procrastination to teach themselves an entire programming language. If learning Python was as simple as watching YouTube videos, you’d think everyone would do it.

Reality: You May Have Better Luck Learning Python at a Coding Bootcamp

Generally speaking, learning Python quickly requires structure and support. And, the reality is you can find both of those things at a coding bootcamp, like Hackbright Academy. You can pursue a Python-based education in whichever way you see fit, but we’re here for you if you want to join a community of phenomenal diverse software engineers.

Want to Make Learning Python a Part of Your Reality?

If you want to learn Python quickly and move your software engineering career forward, then you should consider studying at Hackbright Academy. Our Full-Time 12-week Software Engineering course is designed to teach you how to be a full-stack developer, and our curriculum centers on Python because we know how versatile and beginner-friendly it can be. You can learn more about our tech stack and check out our Software Engineering course to get started.

Recommended Reading

How Hard Is It to Learn Python?

Python vs Java: Which Should I Learn First?

What Companies in the Bay Area Use Python?

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