How to Learn Python Fast
You’re in a hurry! Does your boss want you to finally learn to code? Or would you like to start a career as a programmer? We'll show you how to learn Python fast and how long it will take.
I assume you've already decided to become a programmer. You know it's a good opportunity. You browse job postings, and you can't believe how many are on the market. But you don't know which language to learn. This is a crucial decision that your future career may depend on. Remember, however, that even if you choose a language and learn it, it is not the end of the process. Modern developers must constantly expand their toolbox and continue to learn.
When choosing a programming path, Python is a good bet. The whole world is talking about it. You can do a lot of things with this programming language. It is a general-purpose language, so it is helpful with programming applications as well as database support.
As seen in the figure below, Python is still gaining popularity. It is the only language that has been growing steadily for the past five years. It is also one of the few languages that have gained more users this year than last year.
In the independent Stack Overflow Developer Survey 2019, Python came in fourth, but trends show that it's still growing in strength. This year, Python just overtook Java, in addition to C# and PHP last year. It is currently the fastest developing programming language. Analysts expect that within three to four years, Python will outperform the competition and become the most popular programming language in the world.
Why? Python is simpler than languages like Java, Ruby, and C#. Therefore, it is an easier language for complete beginners to learn. You can quickly start working on your own projects.
This also translates into job offers. More and more employers are looking for employees who know Python. You are probably wondering where you can learn Python. Also, how do you do it effectively and, above all, quickly?
Where Do You Learn Python?
It all depends on how you approach learning. Many people look for information on the web, tutorials on Youtube, or courses offered on popular platforms. I tried it, and to be honest, it's not a good idea.
Why? First of all, it’s difficult to maintain focus watching YouTube videos. They last far too long. How many hours can you stare at a video in which you can see only someone writing something on the computer and talking about it in a boring way? In my opinion, not many, especially if you don't have much time.
When using a platform that aggregates many different types of courses, you don’t know if you will actually learn much. It is worth choosing specialized companies focused on a given language. So, what will you choose and how do you start learning Python?
When using a platform that aggregates many different types of courses, you don’t know if you will actually learn much. It is worth choosing specialized companies focused on a given language. So, what will you choose and how do you start learning Python?
How Long Will It Take?
Let's look at a bundle offer, Python First Aid, and see how quickly you can complete the courses it contains. They are appropriately divided thematically. If you’re a beginner, make sure you start with Python Basics. Part 1. Here you will learn syntax basics and quickly move on to learn more complex code and functions.
Following a path designed by experts, you won’t waste valuable time wondering what to do next. Even without previous experience in IT, you can quickly make progress and get the skills needed to work with Python.
According to the course descriptions, the first three basics courses will take you 22 to 28 hours. It’s not worth hurrying here. Mistakes made at the beginning of the learning process can have fatal consequences in the future. Bad habits can prevent you from developing further or even block the chances of becoming a programmer. Learning the basics of Python with Vertabelo Academy, you will avoid these types of errors in the future.
The next courses in the bundle are Python Data Structures in Practice and Built-in Algorithms in Python. These are specific, more difficult exercises that can be a challenge but at the same time give you experience with real tasks and problems. In total, there are 185 interactive exercises, which, according to the creators, should take 35 to 40 hours to solve.
To complete all of the courses in Python First Aid, it will take up to 70 hours of continuous learning, which is less than 3 days! Of course, no one can do all the tasks in one go. You have to eat, sleep, and work.
If you're in a hurry and motivated to finish quickly, schedule daily learning times. Choose the right time of day, and make sure to focus on your courses. If you decide to devote 2.5 hours a day to learn Python, you will finish the Vertabelo Academy course in 28 days! You can accomplish so much in less than a month!
Don't know how to manage your time? Do you need a tool that will allow you to plan your week, note your study hours, and remind you about them? There are apps for this that are easy to use. I use Google Calendar. However, there are many alternatives for both Android and iOS. Some worth checking out are Any.do, TimeTune, and Evernote. Most of these solutions can also be used as browser add-ons. Just write down your learning times, and stick to the plan.
It’s also important to stay focused during your studies. Eliminate anything that could distract you. You don't want your phone to ring or messages to pop up while you're working on Python exercises. Don’t know how to disconnect while studying? Check out this article: Kill Online Distractions: 5 Tools to Help You Stay Focused.
Why Vertabelo Academy?
Okay, we know how long it will take. But how do you learn python effectively? The learning process at Vertabelo Academy involves more than theory. It includes a bunch of examples of tasks and problems that Python developers face in their daily work. The courses are created with the goal of learning through practice.
What does this mean? Instead of wasting your valuable time on theory, you will focus on developing practical skills that you can later use to work on applications or databases.
After finishing Python First Aid, you can continue learning. Do you want to do data science with Python? More courses are waiting for you:
Working with Strings in Python - In this course, you'll learn how to work with string operations in Python. You will master the basics and learn how to use them in your code. You will see how to combine, cut, and iterate strings. It will also introduce many popular string functions, such as replace()
, split()
, and strip()
. Finally, it will teach you how to format string values and display them correctly according to your project.
Estimated time to complete: 10h
Introduction to Python for Data Science - This course will teach you how to import data into Python, use data frames, and, most importantly, think analytically.
Estimated time to complete: 12h
How to Read and Write CSV Files in Python - Do you need to deal with CSV files? This is an important skill for programmers to have. You will learn that there is no single CSV standard. Don't be afraid. This course covers all the necessary knowledge about CSV files. You will quickly learn how to create a CSV dialect that matches your preferred file format.
Estimated time to complete: 7h
How to Read and Write JSON Files in Python - Learn how to work with JSON files. This is a popular format for exchanging data between applications. For example, they are used by Facebook API, Twitter AP, and Google Calendar.
Estimated time to complete: 7h
Summary
There are many ways to learn Python. In this article, I recommended the method that is, in my opinion, the fastest and surest. I walked this path myself. By completing the courses, I quickly gained knowledge and skills which allow me to work in Python.
Vertabelo Academy courses are the easiest way to learn Python. So, what are you waiting for? Instead of asking if it is worth it to learn Python, ask yourself why you aren’t learning it yet. Sit down, start a course, plan your time well, and think about how your work and life will change if you enter the amazing world of programming.