What is Python?

Just like how we use English or any other language to communicate with people, there are languages that we can use to communicate with computers.

Short answer:

Python is one such language that we use to give computers instructions to perform tasks, like solving math problems, showing messages, or even controlling a robot. It powers some of the world’s most popular applications and platforms, from YouTube’s video streaming to Instagram’s backend, making it an essential component of modern technology.

It is known for being beginner-friendly as it's easy to read and learn, even for people who have never written code before. It is an interpreted, object-oriented, high-level programming language that is widely used across various domains, such as web development, data analysis, automation, and machine learning.

Don’t be intimidated by these terms, read on to find out what they mean.

Python in simple terms

Let’s break down some of the key terms in a simple way for someone new to programming:

  • Interpreted: When we write Python code, we don’t need to convert it into a special format for the computer to understand (called compiling). Instead, Python reads and executes the code directly, line by line, which makes it easier to test and experiment with small pieces of code.

  • Object-oriented: Python is built around the idea of “objects,” which we can think of as real-world items that have qualities (like a “car” object might have a color, brand, and speed) and actions (a car can “drive” or “stop”). This approach helps us organize and reuse our code clearly, making it ideal for larger projects.

  • High-level: Python is considered “high-level” because it’s designed to be close to how humans think rather than how computers work internally. We don’t need to worry about the tiny details of how the computer handles data—Python takes care of that for us.

This makes Python a great choice for beginners who want to explore different fields or build their projects!

Why is Python so popular?

Created by Guido van Rossum in 1991, Python has become one of the most popular programming languages worldwide due to its community support and ever-growing range of applications. Its large community of users contributes to abundant learning resources and active support for newcomers. Moreover, Python is designed to resemble human language, making it intuitive and easy to learn.

Python’s syntax and readability

  • Human-like syntax: Python’s clean syntax allows developers to focus more on solving problems rather than getting bogged down in complicated code structures.

  • Readability: Python emphasizes readability, making it easier for developers to understand, maintain, and extend code over time. This simplicity reduces the cost and effort of maintaining programs, especially in larger projects.

Python boosts productivity

  • Modularity: Python offers extensive libraries and frameworks (like Django, Flask, NumPy, and TensorFlow) that simplify complex tasks, allowing developers to build powerful applications with minimal effort. Python's modules and packages promote modularity and code reuse, making large projects more manageable.

  • Free and cross-platform: The Python interpreter and its extensive standard library are available for free on all major platforms, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. We can distribute our Python programs freely without worrying about licensing restrictions.

Rapid development with Python

  • No compilation step: One of Python’s key strengths is that it doesn’t require a compilation step. This results in an incredibly fast edit-test-debug cycle, enabling developers to iterate quickly.

  • Effortless debugging:: Debugging Python programs is straightforward. Errors won’t crash our system with cryptic messages; instead, Python provides detailed error reports that help pinpoint exactly where things went wrong.

What is Python used for?

Python’s versatility makes it a go-to language across various fields. Let's look at some of its real-world uses:

1. Web development

Python powers popular web frameworks like DjangoA Python-based framework that makes it easier and faster to build secure, scalable web applications using Python. and FlaskAlso a Python-based web framework that offers more flexibility and simplicity than Django, making it a good choice for smaller or more customized projects., which simplify the creation of robust and secure websites. So, when we write a web app using Django, we are actually writing Python code. Big names like Instagram and Pinterest also use Python to handle millions of users.

Example: Imagine we're creating a blog. With Django (a web framework built entirely using Python), we can quickly establish user authentication, content management, and even a commenting system.

2. Data analysis

  1. Data scientists love Python for its powerful libraries like pandasA Python library that simplifies data analysis and manipulation, providing powerful tools to work with structured data like tables and time series., NumPyA Python library that enables efficient numerical computations, offering support for large, multi-dimensional arrays and a wide range of mathematical functions., and scikit-learnA Python library for machine learning that provides easy-to-use tools for building, training, and evaluating predictive models.. These tools allow for data analysis, visualization, and building machine learning models efficiently.

Example: We can use Python to analyze sales data and predict future trends using machine learning models—turning numbers into insights that guide decisions.

3. Automation

Python can help automate the repetitive tasks like file organization or web scraping. Whether it's renaming thousands of files or scraping data from websites, Python scripts save time.

Example: We can automate our email filtering system, moving specific messages into folders based on keywords, and keeping your inbox organized with minimal effort.

4. Game development

    1. Python, along with libraries like Pygame, is used for developing simple games. While it might not be the first choice for AAA game development, Python is excellent for prototypes and indie games.

Example: Python lets us create a simple platformer game, adding physics, character movements, and levels as you build your skills.

5. Artificial intelligence and deep learning

Python’s popularity in AI continues to grow. Libraries like TensorFlow and PyTorch are used to create complex neural networks for deep learning applications.

Example: With Python, we can build an AI model that can recognize images or translate languages, tasks that previously seemed futuristic.

6. Scientific computing

In fields like physics, biology, and astronomy, Python is widely used for simulations, data analysis, and research.

Example: Python lets us simulate the orbits of planets or analyze gene sequences to unlock scientific discoveries. Python is also used at NASA for data analysis, simulations, and scientific computing. Its simplicity and power make it ideal for researchers and scientists.

Key takeaways

  • Beginner-friendly language: Python features a simple and readable syntax, making it accessible for beginners and ideal for those new to programming.

  • Versatile applications: Python is widely used across various domains, including web development, data analysis, automation, game development, and artificial intelligence.

  • Interpreted and high-level: As an interpreted language, Python allows for quick testing and debugging, facilitating a faster development cycle without the need for compilation.

  • Object-oriented programming: Python supports object-oriented programming, helping developers organize code effectively and promoting code reuse through the use of classes and objects.

  • Strong community support: Python benefits from a large and active community, providing ample learning resources, libraries, and frameworks that simplify complex tasks and enhance development efficiency.

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Frequently asked questions

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Why is this language called Python?

Guido van Rossum was also reading the published scripts of Monty Python’s Flying Circus (a popular British comedy show from the 1970s) when he was working on developing the language. As he wanted a name that was short, memorable, and slightly quirky, he thought “Python” would be a great fit.

So, Python has nothing to do with the snake—it’s actually a playful reference to the comedy troupe. This lighthearted choice reflects Python’s emphasis on simplicity and readability, making programming more accessible and enjoyable.


How to start Python coding?

The best way to learn Python or any language/framework is through a guided plan or course. Learning on your own without a guided plan might lead to knowledge gaps and/or a rabbit hole (you could keep diving into the details of a topic and lose sight of the main path).

There are plenty of online coding learning platforms that offer carefully designed learning paths for absolute beginners that you can use to learn Python at your own pace. Do your research and see what works for you.

You can check out the Python-based complete path to becoming a Python software developer.


How long does it take to learn Python?

It depends on a number of things:

  1. The amount of time you allot to study daily/weekly
  2. Your prior coding experience
  3. Your learning method or path
  4. Your intended career path and personal goals

Overall general estimated time based on different paths

  • If you’re self-studying, then it might take 6–12 months.
  • If you’re taking a coding bootcamp, then it might take 3–6 months.
  • If you go for a college degree, then it might take 4 years

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