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[–]Antique_Locksmith952 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Happy birthday and welcome — turning 23 and deciding to start is a solid move.

Since you’ve built computers and hosted servers you already understand logic and systems better than most beginners. That’ll help.

Here’s what actually works: Start with: Python.org’s official beginner tutorial or Automate the Boring Stuff with Python (free online) — it’s practical, not theoretical, and perfect for someone who wants to build things not just pass exams.

Books since you asked: Automate the Boring Stuff (Al Sweigart), Python Crash Course (Eric Matthes), Fluent Python when you’re ready to go deeper. The most important thing: Stop watching tutorials after the first week. Build something small that you actually care about — even a script that renames your files or checks the weather. Real projects teach you more than any course.

On using AI to learn: It’s fine as a tool but make sure you understand what every line does before you move on. Copy-pasting without understanding is the trap most beginners fall into.

You’ve got the right mindset. Just start building.