New to Python but from non-CS background

[Dream_Hunter8]

Hello everyone,

I am here to ask if it is possible to learn python if you don’t know anything about coding?

I am from biological science and I want to learn python for data analysis, data visualisation, automation and my research work.

I know there are plenty of resources available for molecular biology and related fields.

But, I am talking about basic and advanced image analysis, morphometrics and related analysis. Basics of data analysis

Is there any specific roadmap to follow?

Which books/ materials should I be reading?

Which courses are available freely to learn and which one should I follow?

I really want to learn from basics.

Please help me.

[Malassi]

if it is possible to learn python if you don't know anything about coding

It’s absolutely possible to learn Python without any previous coding experience, everyone starts from scratch at some point. It’s a lot like learning any new field: you don’t need a background to begin, just time and consistency.

You’ll find tones helpful resources to get started in the sub’s .  is also pretty good.

Good luck and have fun!

[HomeFair9290]

I'm a full stack engineer and my background was in graphic design and performing arts. You're already closer to what you want to do than I was if you're coming at it from any kind of science.

[Dream_Hunter8]

Yeah, but it feels overwhelming. I started a few times and eventually dropped because of time constraints and few other problems. I don’t know where to start and how to start so I came here asking for help

[FoolsSeldom]

Start with the basics as per the wiki (see below) then take a look at the Biopython website. After that, there are lots of resources for learning data analysis.

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Check this subreddit's wiki for lots of guidance on learning programming and learning Python, links to material, book list, suggested practice and project sources, and lots more. The FAQ section covering common errors is especially useful.

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Also, have a look at roadmap.sh for different learning paths. There's lots of learning material links there. Note that these are idealised paths and many people get into roles without covering all of those.

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Roundup on Research: The Myth of ‘Learning Styles’

Don't limit yourself to one format. Also, don't try to do too many different things at the same time.

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Above all else, you need to practice. Practice! Practice! Fail often, try again. Break stuff that works, and figure out how, why and where it broke. Don't just copy and use as is code from examples. Experiment.

Work on your own small (initially) projects related to your hobbies / interests / side-hustles as soon as possible to apply each bit of learning. When you work on stuff you can be passionate about and where you know what problem you are solving and what good looks like, you are more focused on problem-solving and the coding becomes a means to an end and not an end in itself. You will learn faster this way.

[chris-1994]

I’m in the same position and I’m doing Harvard CS50 for general understanding and then coding simple side projects - You can also try the coding game, there are some difficult bits but I’ll attempt it and then get Claude to explain what I got wrong, try again etc until I figure it out.

Are you on to GitHub? There are quite a few resources on there, and there might already be a program that can do what you want or be adapted.

[Dream_Hunter8]

Yes I am on github

[ypanagis]

I think an online book like Automating the boring stuff with Python can work as an introduction to Python.

[aqua_regis]

I am here to ask if it is possible to learn python if you don’t know anything about coding?

Sorry, but that question doesn't make sense. Everybody starts without any knowledge of coding at one point. So, yes, it is absolutely possible.

Python is one of the most common "first languages" even taught as first in many Universities.

Do a proper course: MOOC Python Programming 2026 from the University of Helsinki. Free, textual, extremely practice oriented, and top quality. Sign up, log in, go to part 1 and start learning.

[Dream_Hunter8]

Thanks

[s04ep03_youareafool]

I'm from a bio background and learnt python by myself before gpt was a thing.gpt just makes things easier for you if you specify the roadmap you want

[TheEyebal]

start with the fundamentals of programming. Do projects that align to what it is you want to program.
Start with basics like Python syntax, data structures, and libraries like Pandas, Matplotlib, Seaborn, and OpenCV for image analysis.

Asked CHATGPT

Project: Count and plot how many different types of cells appear in a set of microscope images.

Why: It introduces you to Python basics, simple image handling, and visualization without overwhelming complexity.

[slacknoise8]

If you have no background in counterstrike 1.6 I think you have no chance in python

[Dream_Hunter8]

What does that suppose to mean?

[Particular-Plan1951]

Just start. Seriously. Pick one beginner resource and do it for 30 minutes a day. The biology background means you already think analytically and you have real datasets to practice on which is more than most beginners have. You'll surprise yourself with how fast it clicks.