What is Python?

Python is a high-level, object-oriented programming language developed by Guido van Rossum. This means that Python is based on data and is easily understood by humans.

Earlier, Python was only considered helpful for automating boring stuff, but its general-purpose nature soon came to light. We realised that Python differed from purpose-specific languages such as HTML/CSS, Ruby or PHP.

The introduction of Python as a general-purpose language revolutionised the world of programming. Python was no longer treated like other languages, i.e. used only to solve specific problems. It can be used in various domains such as Web Development, App Development, Data Science and Machine Learning.

Added to the versatility of Python, its simple syntax makes it the perfect fit for any newbie programmer.

Example:

Now that we have learned what is Python, let’s write a simple Python program to put our knowledge to use!

Take a look at this example of a Python program –

Problem Statement – Write a Python program to take two numbers from the user and print their sum.

Code:

• In the above code snippet, we took two numbers from the user using Python's “input” function and computed the sum.
• The sum was then displayed using the “print” function.
• We also added the relevant comment for the same.

What is Python used for?

Depending on how you plan to use Python, there can be several reasons it’s currently being used in the industry.

Some of the reasons are –

1. Python for Programmers:

The high level of abstraction offered by Python benefits all programmers. It’s highly interactive and has a simple syntax, making it everyone’s favourite.

2. Python for AI and Machine Learning

Because of its stable, flexible and straightforward nature, Python is widely employed in the realms of Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence. It is one of the go-to languages for Data Scientists and Machine Learning practitioners because of the available AI and ML toolkits.

3. Data Analytics and Data Science

Much like AI and ML, Data Analytics and Data Science also use Python widely. At present, when we are creating more and more data every day, efficient platforms like Python are in huge demand for analysing, manipulating, and managing data.

4. Web Development and Game Development

Web Development and Game Development fields are not too far behind in the Python race. Python is highly efficient for developing quick game prototypes, offering most developers an edge. Web frameworks like Django and Flask make it challenging to say no to Python programming when it comes to tasks related to web development.

5. Highly compatible with all major platforms

Python supports all popular operating systems. The same codes can run on different platforms without recompilation.

6. Python for sysadmins

Those familiar with the art of shell scripting appreciate Python sincerely. Python ensures that automating tedious tasks is exciting and straightforward.

7. Python Community

Python has an enormous user community. This indicates that no matter what problem you will run into, you can find a solution with the support of the Python Community.

Why is Python so popular?

Let’s look at some key reasons –

1. Python is easy to learn

Yes! You read that right. The straightforward syntax of Python enhances its readability, making it one of the most accessible programming languages to grasp.

Many beginners often find programming intimidating, but Python serves as a friendly companion during the initial learning stages, offering a syntax that resembles English.

2. Python boasts a variety of libraries, frameworks, and packages.

Think of a programmable solution, look up relevant Python libraries, import them, and translate your solution into code by writing Python scripts. Surprisingly, the process is as straightforward as it sounds.

Python offers several popular and influential libraries, including NumPy and Pandas for Data Science; Matplotlib and Seaborn for Data Visualisation; Keras, PyTorch, etc., for Machine Learning and so much more!

3. Python and its applications.

Exploring python.org reveals a plethora of Python Success Stories spanning various industries such as recruiting, healthcare, financial services, marketing, and education, among others. The applications of Python appear boundless, making the current moment an opportune time to embrace the Python trend!

4. Python is a dynamically typed and extensible language.

Unlike traditional programming languages like Java and C, variables are not strictly declared before their values are assigned. This makes Python flexible and allows the variables to have a different data type at various times during the execution. This makes Python dynamically typed. We can use Python to modify or add syntax and code in other languages, making it an extensible language.

Python Syntax compared to other programming languages

• Python is Highly readable and straightforward, resembling English; fewer lines of code are needed, whereas other Languages have more complex syntax with additional boilerplate code.
• Python uses indentation to define code blocks, making whitespace significant, while other Languages use curly braces and are less strict about indentation.
• Python is dynamically typed,i.e., there is no need for explicit variable declaration, whereas other languages are statically typed, requiring explicit variable type declaration.

Learn More:

• Matplotlib in Python.
• Python Applications
• print function in python.
• What is Python Programming ?.