Python For Dummies

by Stef Maruch, Aahz Maruch

Overview

Use Python to build programs, debug code, and simplify development

Wrap yourself up in the structures, libraries, and advanced features of Python

Looking for a powerful yet easy-to-read programming language? Then slither up to Python! This friendly reference introduces you to Python, the portable, interactive language that combines great power with clear syntax. Get familiar with Python's building blocks; work with strings, dictionaries, and sets; and find out everything you need to write a robust program.

Discover how to

• Process lists and tuples
• Direct a program with control structures
• Build applications with modules and packages
• Get a charge from the "batteries included" libraries
• Understand the new features of Python 2.5, including SQLite

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781118084847
Publisher:	Wiley
Publication date:	05/09/2011
Series:	For Dummies Books
Sold by:	JOHN WILEY & SONS
Format:	eBook
Pages:	432
Sales rank:	252,189
File size:	3 MB

About the Author

Stef Maruch got her hands on an original 128K Mac in 1984 and has been writing about computers ever since. She has over fifteen years’ experience in instructional design, writing, and editing end-user computer manuals, including tutorials and user’s guides for Apple Newton, HyperCard and HyperTalk, and DVD Studio Pro.

Aahz Maruch is a writer, trainer, and consultant who has been using Python for more than seven years. He has been using computers professionally for 20 years, and his background includes stints of high-end tech support, systems administration, and programming. Aahz is currently working as a programmer for a company with a Web-based application.

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Table of Contents

Introduction.

Part I: Getting Started.

Chapter 1: Introducing Python.

Chapter 2: Getting Your Hands on the Keyboard: Using Help, Interactive Mode, and IDLE.

Chapter 3: Basic Elements and Syntax.

Chapter 4: Grand Tour of the Python Language.

Chapter 5: Working Like a Programmer.

Part II: Building Blocks.

Chapter 6: So This String Walks into a Bar.

Chapter 7: Counting Your Way to Fun and Profit.

Chapter 8: Processing Lists and Tuples.

Chapter 9: Diving into Dictionaries.

Part III: Structures.

Chapter 10: Staying in Control.

Chapter 11: Fun with Functions.

Chapter 12: Building Applications with Modules and Packages.

Chapter 13: Getting Classy.

Chapter 14: Introducing New-Style Classes.

Chapter 15: Feeling Exceptional.

Chapter 16: Tackling Some Advanced Features.

Part IV: Libraries.

Chapter 17: Using Python’s Primary Services.

Chapter 18: Processing Text.

Chapter 19: Digging into Disk Data.

Chapter 20: Accessing the Internet.

Part V: The Part of Tens.

Chapter 21: Ten Critical Python Idioms.

Chapter 22: Ten Great Resources.

Part VI: Appendixes.

Appendix A: Getting and Installing Python.

Appendix B: Python Version Differences.

Index.