Dive into the world of IT automation with Google’s IT Automation Certification! This comprehensive program, with a focus on Python, is a game-changer for those aspiring to learn coding in a practical and industry-relevant way.
The course uses Python to illustrate fundamental programming concepts and their practical application in script writing. While numerous programming languages are available, Python stands out for several reasons. Firstly, Python offers a user-friendly syntax that resembles natural language, making it relatively easy to convey what is happening in the code. Additionally, Python’s readability and simplicity make it an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced programmers.
Note: While the above is true, it’s also true that some may struggle with understanding Python. In some cases, I’ll write some code based on a course’s instructions, but scratch my head as to how it came up with the result. This confusion comes from how much Python and its many libraries often perform work in the background that I’m not seeing. If you don’t get hung up on those details, that shouldn’t bother you when programming with Python.
Introductory Python Example
This code defines a list with names takes a children’s book line and recreates the narrator saying good night to objects and sounds in a list we create.
things = ['stars', 'air, 'noises everywhere']
for thing in things:
print("Goodnight " + thing)
#output
Goodnight stars
Goodnight air
Goodnight noises everywhereYou can practice this yourself with Python installed, or using online Python interpreters. Try changing up the text you want to print, to get used to understanding and editing code.
Important Python Resources
Online Python interpreters:
Python Reference Material
As you move forward, you’re going to want to look up important concepts, built-in functions, and libraries. Or simply get help when you are stuck. Here are some resources for all of those things:
- Official Python Documentation
- https://stackoverflow.com/
- Python Tutor Mailing List
- Upcoming Python Changes Mailing List
The History and Current State of Python
If you are interested in reading about Python and where it stands now, check out these websites and articles:
- Wikipedia – History of Python
- Stack Overflow – The Incredible Growth of Python
- Future Trends for Python
Python’s Code Blocks and Syntax
When writing code, ensuring correct syntax is crucial for optimal performance. Even the smallest typo, such as a missing parenthesis or an extra comma, can lead to syntax errors, preventing code execution. If your code encounters an error or exception, pay close attention to syntax and be cautious of minor mistakes. Identifying a single wrong character in lengthy code can be time-consuming, underscoring the importance of maintaining awareness of syntax while coding. Remember, precision in syntax is key to successful code implementation.
Common syntax errors:
- Misspellings
- Incorrect indentations
- Missing or incorrect key characters:
- Bracket types – ( curved ), [ square ], { curly }
- Quote types – “straight-double” or ‘straight-single’, “curly-double” or ‘curly-single’
- Block introduction characters, like colons – :
- Data type mismatches
- Missing, incorrectly used, or misplaced Python reserved words
- Using the wrong case (uppercase/lowercase) – Python is a case-sensitive language
If your code is syntactically correct but exhibits unexpected behavior or output, it may be attributed to a semantic issue. Syntax encompasses the vocabulary, grammar, spelling, and punctuation of code, while semantics pertain to the meaning and logic of coded statements. It is conceivable to have syntactically accurate code that runs without errors, yet fails to fulfill its intended purpose. Ensure your code is both syntactically and semantically sound for optimal results.
Common semantic errors:
- Creating functional code, but getting unintentional output
- Poor logic structures in the design of the code
When working with code blocks in exercises for this course, it’s important to be mindful of syntax and semantic (logic) errors, as well as the overall outcome of your code. Remember, simply fixing an error doesn’t guarantee that the code will produce the desired effect when executed! After resolving an error in your code, don’t forget to click Run to verify your progress. Mastering these best practices will greatly enhance your coding skills and overall learning experience.
Why is Python relevant to IT?
Python is an incredibly popular programming language in the IT industry, widely used today. It has a rich history, with its first version being released by Guido van Rossum in 1991. Over the years, Python has evolved significantly, thanks to its growing community and continuous advancements. Major versions are released whenever there are significant changes to the language’s syntax or semantics. Python 2 was introduced in 2000, followed by Python 3 in 2008.
The course uses Python 3.7, but as of the writing of my study guide, the latest version of Python is Python 3.11.
Python has come a long way from being considered a beginner’s language, often used for teaching basic concepts and writing small scripts. In recent years, Python’s popularity has skyrocketed due to its increased power and the availability of a wide range of tools for various applications. With Python, you can perform statistical calculations, manage your e-commerce site, process images, interact with web services, and automate numerous tasks.
Python is widely available for download on various operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and Mac OS. It’s incredibly popular in the workplace, making it highly likely that if you’re in IT, you’ve already encountered this versatile programming language. If you’re pursuing a career in IT, Python will undoubtedly be a significant part of your journey. With numerous reasons to support its relevance in today’s IT industry, Python stands out as a crucial tool.
Other Languages
When it comes to your IT toolbox, programming languages are like powerful tools with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Some languages prioritize speed, while others excel in enterprise applications or number crunching. Here are some examples.
Platform-specific scripting languages, widely used by system administrators:
- PowerShell (for Windows)
- Bash (for Linux)
General-purpose scripting languages, similar to Python.
- Perl
- Ruby
- JavaScript (often used in web development)
Traditional languages:
- C
- C++
- Java
- Go
Learning the basics of programming in one language offers a valuable advantage: the ability to apply those concepts across multiple languages. By mastering Python, you’ll gain a solid foundation for quickly picking up new coding languages. Recognizing similarities and differences, you’ll effortlessly adapt to different approaches while performing common tasks like variable creation, program flow control, input reading, and output display.
Writing Hello, World! in three different languages
“Hello, World!” is the cliche first example used in a programmer’s first coding lesson. But this course covers how to write it in three different languages, to show the slight syntax differences used to achieve the same result. Additionally, they demonstrate how to have the code print the text 10 times, instead of just once.
Python:
for i in range(10):
print("Hello, World!")Bash:
for i in {1..10}: do
echo Hello, World!
donePowerShell:
for ($i=1; $i -le 10; $i++) {
Write-Host "Hello, World!"
}The Quiz
The end-of-section quiz is comprised of 3 tasks to edit simple print statements in Python, including converting one from Bash syntax. Then it asks 2 basic questions about the material covered, such as what kind of language Python is out of the ones listed above, and a multiple-answer question about why Python is relevant to IT. Pretty simple, but you may have to go back to your notes (or this study guide) to remember all of the syntax and reasons IT workers use Python.
What it takes to be a programmer
Programming involves a significant aspect of learning through trial and error and seeking guidance. If you encounter any challenges along the way, don’t lose heart. Embracing mistakes is crucial for growth and improvement. By viewing failures and broken code as valuable learning opportunities, your programming skills will advance at a faster pace. Start your journey towards mastering programming by understanding the significance of trial and error and the power of learning from mistakes.
I’ve gotten stuck countless times, and have felt intense frustration and anger when faced with errors that I just can’t resolve. However, that feeling turns into an immense feeling of satisfaction and triumph when I step away, and then come back to the problem and solve it almost immediately. Be sure to take lots of breaks when you work on coding projects. They are large and complex, and getting tunnel-visioned can lead to a lot of mistakes and frustration. Breaking them up into smaller tasks can be the key to staying on track and minimizing complicated errors.
Additionally, it helps to seek out help and mentorship. There’s a strong culture of collaboration among the developer and IT community. When coding, it’s common to spend time on Stack Overflow seeking solutions. There’s no need to reinvent the wheel. The internet is full of individuals facing similar challenges who can guide you when you’re stuck. Collaboration is key, even for experienced programmers who may need to consult colleagues or search online for answers. Remember, seeking assistance is valuable and a part of the coding journey.
Whether you’re new to programming or have some software development experience, remember that the most successful programmers overcome challenges by seeking assistance and utilizing additional resources. Gain insights, improve your skills, and conquer obstacles with the help of others.
