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What is Python, and why should you learn it?
Python is a popular programming language used to build machine learning (ML) algorithms, automate processes, analyze data, develop software, and more. It's an essential competency in many careers — learning Python can help newcomers break into the industry and help professionals advance in their careers.
Because its syntax — the keywords, variables, and other elements — is mostly formatted in plain English, Python is considered a beginner-friendly programming language. Victoria Southall, an IT professional with over 15 years of experience, says its "clean and intuitive" syntax helps beginners focus on logic, rather than rules.
"Python is versatile enough to be used in real-world scenarios, keeping learners motivated and building skills that can scale," she says.
Southall also notes that Python is the leading programming language for automation processes, data analysis, and visualization.
Python is used by data analysts, software engineers, web developers, and ML engineers, among other tech professionals. Learn more about this dynamic programming language and how you can become a Python pro via edX.
Benefits of learning Python
Whether you're already working in tech or looking to break into the industry, proficiency in Python is a highly marketable skill for programming professionals. Other benefits of learning Python are listed below.
- Popularity: According to a 2024 report from Statista, Python ranks third among the most-used programming languages globally.
- Versatility: Python can be used in artificial intelligence, machine learning, data analysis, web development, and more.
- Free tools for efficient coding: Python programmers freely use and share libraries and frameworks of pre-written code that can be used by anyone, therefore eliminating the need to rewrite code that already exists.
- Relatively easy to learn: Because of its simple syntax that resembles human language, Python is considered ideal for beginner programmers.
How to learn Python
Step one: Learn the fundamentals
If you're a newcomer to computer science and programming, consider taking an online Python course for beginners.
Introductory courses usually cover:
- Overview of Python and what it's used for
- How to set up Python and an Integrated Development Environment (IDE)
- Basic syntax, variables, and data types
- How to open, read, and write files
- Data structures
- Modules and libraries
Step two: Build projects to sharpen your skills
Practicing coding is an effective way to commit what you've learned to memory. It's also helpful in identifying areas for improvement and — when you take on more challenging coding projects — to develop new skills.
Some examples of beginner projects include:
- Number and word guessing games
- Rock, paper, scissors game
- Live weather notifications for desktop
- Flight data generation
- Crawl restaurant data
Step three: Challenge yourself with advanced concepts
Once you've mastered the basics, advance your skills by challenging yourself to learn advanced concepts. Some popular areas of focus include data science, generative AI, machine learning, and software development.
Boosting your Python skills may require you to learn about new, related subjects, such as cloud computing, the Agile project management approach, and other programming languages.
Professional certificates are another way to add credibility to your résumé.
Explore Python courses and programs on edX
Jobs that use Python
With Python, you can build websites, automate tasks, enhance data visualizations, and test software. Below are a few popular jobs that use Python, with salary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Your next steps to learn Python online with edX
- Master the fundamentals of Python: Evaluate your current knowledge of computer science and programming, then choose an appropriate course.
- Take specialized courses: Deepen your Python knowledge based on your career goals. Consider taking specialized courses in subjects such as:
- AI
- Data science
- Object-oriented design
- Web programming with Python and JavaScript
- Earn a degree or professional certificate: A bachelor's or master's degree in a related tech field, such as data science, computer science, or cybersecurity, demonstrates a job seeker's knowledge and commitment to potential employers.
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Frequently asked questions about Python
Last updated June 17, 2025