Learn to Code by Solving Problems
A Python Programming Primer
- Publisher
- No Starch Press
- Initial publish date
- Jun 2021
- Category
- Python, General, Computer Science
-
Paperback / softback
- ISBN
- 9781718501324
- Publish Date
- Jun 2021
- List Price
- $45.99
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Description
Learn to Code by Solving Problems is a practical introduction to programming using Python. It uses coding-competition challenges to teach you the mechanics of coding and how to think like a savvy programmer.
Computers are capable of solving almost any problem when given the right instructions. That’s where programming comes in. This beginner’s book will have you writing Python programs right away. You’ll solve interesting problems drawn from real coding competitions and build your programming skills as you go.
Every chapter presents problems from coding challenge websites, where online judges test your solutions and provide targeted feedback. As you practice using core Python features, functions, and techniques, you’ll develop a clear understanding of data structures, algorithms, and other programming basics. Bonus exercises invite you to explore new concepts on your own, and multiple-choice questions encourage you to think about how each piece of code works.
You’ll learn how to:
Run Python code, work with strings, and use variables
Write programs that make decisions
Make code more efficient with while and for loops
Use Python sets, lists, and dictionaries to organize, sort, and search data
Design programs using functions and top-down design
Create complete-search algorithms and use Big O notation to design more efficient code
By the end of the book, you’ll not only be proficient in Python, but you’ll also understand how to think through problems and tackle them with code. Programming languages come and go, but this book gives you the lasting foundation you need to start thinking like a programmer.
About the author
Contributor Notes
Dr. Daniel Zingaro is an award-winning Associate Professor of Computer Science in the teaching stream at University of Toronto Mississauga, and is internationally recognized for his expertise in Active Learning. He is also the author of Algorithmic Thinking (No Starch Press, 2021).
Editorial Reviews
"The book is an exceptionally well-written technical Python book for beginners that uses active learning techniques. If you’re a beginner to intermediate-level coder, this book will significantly improve your Python skills. It’s easy to read, and solving the problems is fun and satisfying."
—Christian Mayer, Finxter
"Best resource I’ve encountered for learning to code . . . If you are serious about learning Python, there is absolutely no better resource to get started. One chapter, one practice problem at a time, you will be amazed with the progress you make if you stick with it."
—Jun Tsuru, Amazon Reviewer