Are you interested in learning Python but not sure where to start? There are many online courses and books that can help you learn Python quickly. Check out some of the best Python crash courses online or as a book. These Python crash courses will help you learn Python programming fundamentals, create fun programs and games, and introduce you to more advanced concepts and applications.
Discover the best Python crash course online
For the best Python crash courses online, check out these two courses!
1. Python for AI
This Python for AI course consists of four parts (16 sessions total) that cover the fundamentals of the Python programming language. Each unit focuses on developing skills in specific concepts while building fun games and real-world projects. This course helps you gain the skills you need to create more complex programs and pursue your personal interests. And you can learn entirely online with an experienced teacher!
The first part focuses on Python basics, such as syntax, conditionals, loops, data types, variables, data structures, and functions. You will build on these concepts in the second part to learn about dictionaries and files and explore using Python for AI and data science. The third part then focuses on object-oriented programming concepts to develop more complex games and programs. In the last part, all of these concepts and skills are combined with advanced data structures and APIs to develop an independent Python project.
Pros:
- Completely online
- Small classes (or can choose private sessions)
- Taught by experienced teachers
- Earn a certificate of completion
Cons:
- Requires Scratch experience
- Not free
Best for: Kids and teens looking to expand their coding skills with a real-world programming language in a personalized setting
2. Data Science with Python and Pandas
Learn data analytics with the basics of Pandas. Data analytics is critical to the success of modern businesses, and can be really fun to learn for kids and teens. No matter whether you want to become an entrepreneur, a lawyer, a journalist, a doctor, or an engineer, it is important for to gain the power to analyze and utilize and the data to gain business insights and make decisions.
Pandas + Python is a powerful combination that will help you understand the foundation of Data Science and explore an exciting field. Pandas is a fast, powerful, and flexible open source data analysis and manipulation tool. It is easy to use and yet covers the most foundational features needed for analyzing data end to end. Students will learn and practice throughout the class, and will also complete a project using a dataset they have identified themselves.
Pros:
- Completely online
- Small classes (or can choose private sessions)
- Taught by experienced teachers
- Earn a certificate of completion
Cons:
- Not free
Best for: Teens looking to expand their data science skills
3. Crash Course on Python
This Crash Course on Python is offered by Google on Coursera as part of their Google IT Automation with Python Professional Certificate. This course teaches you the basics of the Python programming language and how to use the skills you learn to solve complex problems. It is entirely online and allows you to work at your own pace by following along with video tutorials and completing the practice exercises and projects.
The Crash Course on Python course consists of six modules, including a final project, focusing on basic syntax, loops, Strings, lists, dictionaries, and object-oriented programming concepts. Each module has multiple lessons delivered through video tutorials and practice exercises. At the end of the course, you complete a final project to apply your skills and make progress towards the Google IT Automation with Python Professional Certificate.
Pros:
- Completely online
- Work at your own pace
- Part of a Google certification program
Cons:
- No individualized help or guidance
- Have to subscribe to Coursera to access
Best for: Adults looking to expand or change their career
Check out free Python crash courses
Now that you know some of the best Python classes, here are some free Python crash courses that you can check out to develop your Python programming skills, with no risk in trying.
1. Free Intro to Python Coding
In this free Python coding class, you can take your first dive into coding with Python. Join along to learn how to animate and draw with Python, and build your own story project to create a cool animation. This small group class is live online, designed by experts from Google, Stanford, and MIT, and led by an experience instructor.
2. Programiz: Learn Python Programming
Programiz offers Python programming tutorials, courses, examples, and references as well as an online compiler to practice writing Python code. The tutorials and examples are free and cover a variety of Python programming topics from beginner to advanced. The interactive course is available with a paid subscription and includes projects and challenges to apply the skills you learn and a certificate of completion.
3. Codecademy: Learn Python 3
Codeacademy offers both free and paid courses and training for career paths for all levels of programming knowledge. The Learn Python 3 course covers fundamental programming concepts and the Python programming language, including conditionals, lists, loops, functions, dictionaries, and classes. A certificate of completion is available on the paid plan.
4. Edureka: Python Tutorial for Beginners
This Edureka Python Tutorial videos playlist covers Python fundamentals and libraries with detailed examples. The video playlist also includes information for pursuing a career as a Python programmer and introduces how Python is used in various applications, such as data science and machine learning. There are almost 200 videos which teach a variety of topics to learn the Python programming language and develop real-world applications using Python.
Explore Python crash course books
Books are also a great way to learn Python! Here are some great Python crash course books.
1. Python Crash Course, 2nd Edition: A Hands-On, Project-Based Introduction to Programming
Python Crash Course is a bestselling book for learning the Python programming language. It teaches fundamental Python concepts while developing interactive apps and games. The book also has an accompanying resource website to download code samples and solutions.
2. Python Programming for Beginners: The Ultimate Crash Course to Learn Python in 7 Days with Step-by-Step Guidance and Hands-On Exercises
Python Programming for Beginners introduces Python programming concepts through exercises and challenges to build fundamental Python programming skills within a week. With this book, you can learn about conditionals, loops, functions, and modules as well as gain exposure to advanced programming concepts and tools.
3. Learn Python Quickly: A Complete Beginner’s Guide to Learning Python, Even If You’re New to Programming (Crash Course With Hands-On Project)
Learn Python Quickly teaches the basics of the Python programming language and introduces intermediate and advanced topics to develop your skills. Concepts are taught through exercises and projects, and you can access the source code files to try on your own computer. Not only will you learn about conditionals, loops, functions, and modules with this book, but you can also learn about reading and writing files, image handling, and recursion.
How long does it take to finish a Python crash course?
The amount of time it takes to finish a Python crash course depends entirely on how much time you set aside to study and practice and the structure of the course itself. Some of the courses mentioned above may take several weeks, while others can be completed in one or two weeks. If you plan to spend a couple hours each week studying and practicing, then you can expect to take several weeks to complete a Python crash course. If you plan to spend an hour or two each day, then you can expect to complete a Python crash course more quickly.
Can I learn Python in 2 weeks?
You can totally learn Python in two weeks! However, keep in mind that you won't be an expert in Python in just two weeks. These crash courses are great for getting you started and learning the basics, but there is much more you can do with Python. Learning any programming language is an ongoing process. Computer scientists are always learning more about the programming language they use every day, especially since programming languages like Python are constantly evolving.
Take a Python crash course
Ready to get started? Sign up for one of the crash courses mentioned in this article to start your Python journey. If you're not sure if you're ready for a crash course yet, you can start by taking our Free Intro to Python Coding class or try the How to Make AI in Python tutorial to build your first Python program!
Written by Jamila Cocchiola who has always been fascinated with technology and its impact on the world. The technologies that emerged while she was in high school showed her all the ways software could be used to connect people, so she learned how to code so she could make her own! She went on to make a career out of developing software and apps before deciding to become a teacher to help students see the importance, benefits, and fun of computer science.
