Starting Out with Python, Global Edition

This is almost certainly THE best book for beginners, in fact it should be used as the de facto resource on the main Python web page for starter programmers. It explains everything in a way that clears up any misunderstanding you may have made and hand holds you all the way.Pay the money for the actual book and make notes...try your best to type in the code as the examples are normally small and non to complex. The book is a keeper...even when you finish it, you will end up going back to it for something.

Intl edition is same, just different cover

If new to Python and asking for help, you will probably be recommended either this book or Al Swigarts automate the boring stuff with python. In my opinion this book gives a much better introduction into starting to learn the syntax and how to write your own code. With this book you learn by doing and for me helped the concepts stick. The end of chapter questions are sometimes repetitive but that repetition helps cement the knowledge, especially if you do say all the odd questions on the first pass; then going back through to do the evens to revise the topics. By the end of the book, by completing the end of chapter questions you will be in an excellent position to begin using code in real life scenarios, at which point you may find the second half of Automate The Boring Stuff useful.If you are new to programming get this book. You will not be disappointed and will have obtained a solid foundation.

As an absolute beginner, I have found this to be truly indispensable in my studies.Truly a no-nonsense textbook, it covers the basics in a clear and understandable way - anyone who reads this carefully should be able to master the basics of python. Also very good as a reference book. It does what it is supposed to, and well. Already read and reread.

This book is very good for beginners that wants to learn programming ! Better than Zed Shaw's Learn Python the Hard Way, because you are learning and understanding the concepts, instead of just coding without knowing the definitions of Strings, def, tuples, lists, dictionaries.Before you jump into other programming languages, learn Python first. because it is simple and you will get the structure/basics/concepts of how programming works! Then once you learn Python and get the hang of it, other programming languages will make a lot of sense.This book is very simple, breaks it down by chapters/lessons. It is easy to follow and helps you understands the concepts/basics. It has a mix of readings and examples. Programming exercises and Homework at the end of the chapter helps a lot! Do them. instead of just reading the book and skimming! if you do get stuck, there are many resources, You-Tube videos out there to help you.