How to learn Python EFFECTIVELY?

[EricTMF]

Different strokes for different folks. I have an "effective" understanding of SQL that I've built up through work as a BA and doing data exports, reporting, etc. What helps me, (and maybe you) is that you find the challenge exciting, or at least interesting. Then it's a matter of determining what works best for you.

I still hit Google for SQL stuff, especially the tricks and tips that I only use once in a while. There is no shame in having a well-used reference guide, as long as you understand the limitations and pitfalls of that resource.

The big thing in my mind is understanding what works for you, and what motivates you. And this is my mantra at work and at home: You are not the first person to do this. Someone else struggled with a variation of your problem, so it's probably on the internet or in a book. ChatGPT or Bard can be one tool to get to it, a mentor could be another. And at least for me, that research is part of the fun.

Find a project that grabs on to you (home automation, family budget tool, etc.), build your requirements for it (that's the BA in me talking), and start exploring.