Be A Python Dev

Edited and approved by: Stefan Bradstreet

Can I really learn Python on my own? Good question. You should know that there is no direct answer to this question. It all depends on you. But this article will give you insights into seeing the possibilities of learning on your own.

Amidst all the programming language difficulties, there’s a unique feature that makes Python stand out among all the other programming languages, and that is its simplicity feature and with it the ability to grow your skills quickly. Going by the information gathered from history, Python was created out of frustration with the shortcomings of the programming language of the 80s. It was made in such a way that a person who never has the haziest knowledge of programming can easily learn Python. Thanks to its good Code readability, Near-English commands, Syntax simplicity, Open source factor, and so on. These make it easily accessible, understandable, and learner-friendly. There is no doubt that Python learning also comes with its own frustrations and difficulties from time to time, but then, which programming language doesn’t? However, the difficulty levels in learning Python are quite minimal and can be easily surmounted by a committed beginner.

So, can one learn Python on his/her own? Yes, you definitely can. What do you need for that?

What you need…

• Learning Materials and Sources

All thanks to the bliss of technology in the current generation, there are a lot of sources and materials available, both online and offline, for learning Python. Videos that can be seen, soft and hard copy book series with good detailed explanation and analysis can be read. There are also websites that offer free coding courses, Python inclusive. There can be interaction with programmers offline via time to time discussions, or online via Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Linked-in YouTube, Emails, etc. There are also programming language forums where developers from all over the world interact. Here, questions can be asked and answers will be gotten. Examples of such forums are; Stack Overflow, Quora, CodeGuru, XDA-Developers Android forums, Codecall Programming Forum, Treehouse community, Software Engineering Stack Exchange, Game development Stack Exchange, etc. All these are available at your fingertips. Even though people do code on mobile devices, a PC is importantly advisable for your practice as you learn from time to time. 

• Time, effort attention 

Commitments of time, effort, and attention are key in learning any programming language, and Python isn’t left out. As a lone learner not having a specific mentor, you’d need this very much in your Python learning journey. You have to gather the right materials, evaluate them, select the most suitable and appropriate ones for your Python learning process. Study well. Watch videos. Pay attention to details. Practice consistently. Work on projects, if possible, with others online or offline. Utilize the materials and knowledge sources to utmost advantage. As long as you give quality time, effort, and attention to the mission, you will achieve your aim of being a good Python developer all on your own.

Possible challenges of learning Python on your own?

Learning Python on your own sounds sweet and is achievable. But then, some python learning challenges cannot be completely eradicated from the picture. The challenges aren’t threatening stuff anyway, but you should know. It will take more time than learning from a mentor. Gathering materials, sieving them, trying to figure out every little thing is no beans.
With the right learning attitude, though, you can overcome these challenges and remember investing in learning materials and yourself with pay itself back ten fold as you grow your skills and confidence. Start by reading through all of our other free articles in the blog section of our page!

You can do it. Get on it!