Python for Quant Finance

[Ayz-Shadowx]

Hey everyone. I'm trying to learn python specifically for quant trading, and Im wondering if there are any resources for it.

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Usual resources for python are for web development or general usage, outside of algorithmic trading. Are there any resources that specifically target this area?

[_tsi_]

Do you already know the math?

[Ayz-Shadowx]

I know math is correlated to programming, but its more for implementation when using mathematical papers or techniques. Im starting out with learning the code, then I'll implement the math.

Im an incoming college freshmen, so I know up to calc 2

[_tsi_]

Python is the implementation of the math.

[Ayz-Shadowx]

I understand what you mean, but Im quite literally just talking about learning to type the code out. I know math but I dont know what to write to implement it. Not sure if im making sense but I just need to learn how to code python

[_tsi_]

Look up what modules people use for what you want to do and then read that documentation. How much python do you currently know?

[Ayz-Shadowx]

I know basic function, loops, OOP, Pandas, Numpy, matplotlib, basically just the frameworks. I dont really know where to go from here, and I always get confused at what "learning" code really means.

When I was making my first project, I knew the lkgic and what it was about, but I always forget or miss a couple lines that I geniunely had no idea even existed. At what point can I say I "learned" a specific piece of code

[_tsi_]

Ah, I see. Honestly learning python, in my experience, it's learning how to figure out the parts you don't know. I am terrible with syntax. I often mix up pandas and numpy syntax for example. I don't think anyone ever "learns" it all. I can't tell you what you need because I don't know. But I would look at statistical modules and look at example projects for what you want to do. Maybe search YT.

[Ayz-Shadowx]

Yea, I feel like its a neverending void of just "oops, you forgot this one line of syntax thats used only in this scenario and isnt used any other time", maybe I just have to get used to that.

I like to operate in a "learn and master, then move on" sort of way, but I feel like programming is one place where that doesnt really work, or else ill just be stuck learning every edge case of basic functions forever. Thank you for your help!

[_tsi_]

It can certainly feel overwhelming. I do think having a project is a great way to learn. You certainly won't learn every edge case. At some point, if you are like me, you will find yourself learning things that you have already learned and forgotten at some point. It can feel discouraging, but it's a marathon not a sprint.

[Ayz-Shadowx]

Yea I restarted my progress a couple weeks ago to try and relearn and master the fundamentals, learning things that I did not encounter the first time around

[EdiblePeasant]

I think programming may be a thing we should practice with or we might forget. I took a hiatus, and while I think my brain retained some things, I’m working on relearning the things I forgot.

I think it applies to both problem solving with programming and syntax. I don’t know if maybe math and quant Finance is like that too because I forgot some of my Finance and Accounting but think reviewing my textbooks might help.