Crash course with Python
Date: 2/06/2025
Python introduction
Learning Objectives
● Define the terms computer program, programming language, script, and
automation
● Use the print() function to output data to the screen
● Explain the difference between the syntax and semantics of a programming
language
● List some of the characteristics of the Python language
● Utilize basic Python arithmetic operators to obtain the results of mathematical
expression
Key Terms
● Programming code - Programming code is a set of written computer instructions,
guided by rules, using a computer programming language. It might help to think
of the computer instructions as a detailed, step-by-step recipe for performing
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tasks. The instructions tell computers and machines how to perform an action.
Programming code may also be referred to as source code or scripts.
● Programming languages - Programming languages are similar to human spoken
languages in that they both use syntax and semantics. Programming languages
are used to write computer programs. Some common programming languages
include Python, Java, C, C++, C#, and R.
● Syntax - Syntax is a set of rules for how statements are constructed in both
human and computer languages. Programming syntax includes rules for the
order of elements in programming instructions, as well as the use of special
characters and their placements in statements. This concept is similar to the
syntax rules for grammar and punctuation in human language.
● Semantics - Semantics refers to the intended meaning or effect of statements, or
collections of words, in both human and computer languages. Semantic errors
are also referred to as logical errors.
● Computer program - A computer program is a step-by-step list of instructions that
a computer follows to reach an intended goal. It is important to be clear and
precise about the actions a computer program is supposed to perform because
computers will do exactly what they are instructed to do. Computer programs can
be long, complex, and accomplish a variety of tasks. They are often developed
by computer programmers and software engineers, but anyone can learn to
create them. Computer programs may involve a structured development cycle.
They can be written in a wide variety of programming languages, such as
Python, Java, C++, R, and more. The completed format of a program is often a
single executable file.
● Script - Scripts are usually shorter and less complex than computer programs.
Scripts are often used to automate specific tasks. However, they can be used for
complex tasks if needed. Scripts are often written by IT professionals, but anyone
can learn to write scripts. Scripts have a shorter, less structured development
cycle as compared to the development of complex computer programs and
software. Scripts can be written in a variety of programming languages, like
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Python, Javascript, Ruby, Bash, and more. Some scripting languages are
interpreted languages and are only compatible with certain platforms.
● Automation - Automation is used to replace a repetitive manual step with one that
happens automatically.
● Output - Output is the end result of a task performed by a function or computer
program. Output can include a single value, a report, entries into a database, and
more.
● Input - Input is information that is provided to a program by the end user. Input
can be text, voice, images, biometrics, and more.
● Functions - A function is a reusable block of code that performs a specific task.
● Variables - Variables are used to temporarily store changeable values in
programming code.
Math
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Date: 09/03/20XX
Science
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