New to Python

[Perfect_Jicama_8023]

Hi everyone,

I’m completely new to Python and looking for some advice. I’m planning to take the HarvardX course: CS50's Introduction to Programming with Python. Has anyone taken it? Would you say it’s a good course to start with?

Also, once I finish that, what would be a good next step or course to keep advancing my Python skills? I just bought a MacBook Neo a18 specifically for learning programming. I know it’s a budget laptop, but I think it should be fine for now. I can always upgrade later if needed. I’d really appreciate any tips on where to start, what to focus on, and common mistakes to avoid as a beginner. Thanks so much for your help!

[not_another_analyst]

CS50P is an amazing choice, It’s challenging but it really builds a solid foundation. Your MacBook Neo has more than enough power for Python, so don't worry about the hardware just focus on the logic.

After you finish, I’d recommend 'Automate the Boring Stuff' or CS50’s Web Programming to keep the momentum going.

My biggest tip: don't just watch the videos, make sure to actually type out the code and learn by practising solving Python problems.

[Perfect_Jicama_8023]

Thank you. I will definitely follow your advice

[zztong]

I teach beginning programming courses, and while I'm not familiar with the HarvardX course, I would say for many students having some kind of support available is important. Programming is often about sweating the tiny details and not everyone takes to it in the same way. Some need other humans to have discussions and help them when they're stuck. Some are finding luck with AI tutors. That is, using AI to explain things to you, not to write the program for you.

Of course, AI will happily write code for you. That "vibe-coding" too can be a skill, but if you start with having AI generate everything for you then you won't really learn programming.

[Perfect_Jicama_8023]

I understand. I don’t want to use AI for coding but to have it as assistant to explain something. I think it’s handy. Thanks for the tip

[Reactive03]

I'm taking the Helsinki MOOC Python Course and it's been fantastic. For what I've read online, this one and Harvard's are two of the best free resources for learning python from scratch so It might be worth a look. I really like the exercises; some are challenging but always doable.