Beginner
Think Python, third edition
Start: Start with Chapter 1: Programming as a way of thinking, then the exercises in Chapters 2 and 3.
English · Full PDF of the older second edition; the third edition is available through the online link above.
Computational thinking, coding & data literacy
Coding
Write small programs, understand each step, test the results and fix errors in your code.
How to learn
Choose one path
Choose Python for calculations and automation, or MDN’s getting-started material for web pages. Finish a small task in one path.
Write a small program you understand
Use inputs, variables, conditions and loops. Explain what each step does in your own words.
Test against expected results
Test ordinary values, zero and invalid inputs. Write the expected result before running each case.
Finish a small project
Build something such as an expense total or a word counter. Document how to run it, its limits and three test results.
Books & guides
Beginner
Automate the Boring Stuff with Python, third edition
Start: Read Chapters 1–5 first. Then try Chapter 10 using your own practice files.
English · Book is free online; video course and print copies are separate
Intermediate
Eloquent JavaScript, fourth edition
Start: Read Values, Types, and Operators, Program Structure, then Functions; work through the exercises.
English · Complete fourth edition, 2024, from the author.
Put it into practice
Research & frameworks
Courses & resources
Harvard — CS50’s Introduction to Programming with Python (opens in a new tab)English · Free lessons and exercises; submission accounts and certificate requirements are separate
Start: Start with Functions, Variables and attempt the first problem set yourself.
Python Software Foundation — The Python Tutorial (opens in a new tab)English · Free; assumes basic programming knowledge
Start: Read section 3: An Informal Introduction to Python, then section 4: More Control Flow Tools.
MDN — Learn web development (opens in a new tab)English · Free to read online
Start: Start with Getting started modules, then move to Core modules.