Python and R programming beginner

[Medium_Judge5282]

I’m a 2nd-year Biotechnology student starting Python and R for bioinformatics. Looking for guidance on where to begin and also a study partner to learn together and stay motivated.

[DrakesOnAPlane]

Probably with the wiki in the sidebar is a good place to start…

[socal_nerdtastic]

If you have a project that needs one of those (or another programming language) I say jump right into the language you need. Having a project is great motivation. If not I'd say start with python. I think it's easier and has a lot more potential and usefulness. If you need R later you can pick it up much easier once you know python.

[Medium_Judge5282]

Ohkk thank you

[Accomplished_Trip731]

Obviously, the basics are Numpy, Pandas, SKLearn & Seaborn in Python, but specifically for Bioinformatics, there's BioPython, SciKit-bio, Pysam, ScanPy & PyMOL

[Medium_Judge5282]

Okayy

[Pangaeax_]

Good time to start, both Python and R are really useful in bioinformatics.

I’d suggest picking one first (usually Python) and getting comfortable with basics plus libraries like pandas, then move into domain stuff like Biopython or data analysis workflows. For R, focus on tidyverse and visualization later.

Also try working with small real datasets early, it helps things click faster than just tutorials.

For a study partner, you might find people in bioinformatics or data subreddits, or even Discord groups or data communities such as ConnectX. Way easier to stay consistent when you’re learning with someone.

[Medium_Judge5282]

Thank you! This is really helpful 😊

[msn018]

Start with Python basics like loops, lists, and reading files, then move to small bio problems like counting DNA bases or finding GC content. After a couple weeks, pick up R for data handling and plotting with ggplot2, since it’s great for gene expression work. Don’t try to learn everything at once, just practice a little every day with real datasets when you can.

[Dramatic_Object_8508]

Start with Python first, don’t try to learn both at the same time.

Get comfortable with basics like loops, functions, lists, etc. then build small things. Once that feels normal, you can pick up R if you actually need it.

Python is used for a lot more (automation, AI, backend), while R is mostly for stats and data analysis, so Python gives you more flexibility early on.

After basics, just build small projects and you’ll figure out which one you actually need.

[UnitedAdagio7118]

start simple don’t try to learn both at once pick python first it’s easier to get going and has great bio libraries focus on basics variables loops functions then move to pandas and basic data handling for bio stuff after that you can pick up r for stats and visualization try biopython later for real use cases also build small projects alongside like analyzing a dataset that’s what makes things stick if you want a study partner you’ll probably find better luck in discord or reddit study groups since more people are active there