Matthes, E: Python Crash Course

Second edition of the best-selling Python book in the world. A fast-paced, no-nonsense guide to programming in Python. Updated and thoroughly revised to reflect the latest in Python code and practices.Python Crash Course is the world's best-selling guide to the Python programming language. This fast-paced, thorough introduction to programming with Python will have you writing programs, solving problems, and making things that work in no time.In the first half of the book, you'll learn basic programming concepts, such as variables, lists, classes, and loops, and practice writing clean code with exercises for each topic. You'll also learn how to make your programs interactive and test your code safely before adding it to a project. In the second half, you'll put your new knowledge into practice with three substantial projects: a Space Invaders-inspired arcade game, a set of data visualizations with Python's handy libraries, and a simple web app you can deploy online.As you work through the book, you'll learn how to: • Use powerful Python libraries and tools, including Pygame, Matplotlib, Plotly, and Django • Make 2D games that respond to keypresses and mouse clicks, and that increase in difficulty • Use data to generate interactive visualizations • Create and customize web apps and deploy them safely online • Deal with mistakes and errors so you can solve your own programming problemsIf you've been thinking about digging into programming, Python Crash Course will get you writing real programs fast. Why wait any longer? Start your engines and code!

Preface to the Second EditionIntroductionPART I: BasicsChapter 1: Getting StartedChapter 2: Variables and Simple Data TypesChapter 3: Introducing ListsChapter 4: Working with ListsChapter 5: if StatementsChapter 6: DictionariesChapter 7: User Input and while LoopsChapter 8: FunctionsChapter 9: ClassesChapter 10: Files and ExceptionsChapter 11: Testing Your CodePART II: ProjectsProject 1: Alien InvasionChapter 12: A Ship that Fires BulletsChapter 13: Aliens!Chapter 14: ScoringProject 2: Data VisualizationChapter 15: Generating DataChapter 16: Downloading DataChapter 17: Working with APIsProject 3: Web ApplicationsChapter 18: Getting Started with DjangoChapter 19: User AccountsChapter 20: Styling and Deploying an AppAfterwordAppendix A: Installing PythonAppendix B: Text EditorsAppendix C: Getting HelpAppendix D: Using Git for Version Control