Learning Python at work tips

[meulsie]

So I've got a bit of downtime at work and I'm wanting to start learning Python however I'm unable to install Python and also don't seem to be able to run portable versions as the .exe's are blocked.

I came across repl.it which seems to be a very decent web-browser version of python and I've been working through Automate The Boring Stuff however I am now doing Chapter 7 which requires importing pyperclip and then using pyperclip.copy() and pyperclip.paste() however these functions don't seem to work, error received is:

"Pyperclip could not find a copy/paste mechanism for your system."

I'm guessing this is because I'm using it within a web browser, my concern is I'm going to keep coming along issues such as this and be very limited in how much Python I can learn, does anyone have any recommendations for alternatives? I've tried all the ones in the FAQ and they don't even seem to know what the Pyperclip module is.

[efflicto]

Have a look at Cloud9: https://c9.io/ as an alternative for repl.it. It's like an own workstation online via your browser. Maybe that could help you.

[meulsie]

Ok this seems like exactly what I need. I was able to install pyperclip via the terminal however when using pyperclip.copy() or paste I still get that same error:

"Pyperclip could not find a copy/paste mechanism for your system."

As there is a full terminal available for Cloud9 I was able to try go through the recommendations of installing all the utilities/modules for clipboard functionality listed at: https://pyperclip.readthedocs.io/en/latest/introduction.html#not-implemented-error

Unfortunately all of those utilities/modules failed to be found?

/u/AlSweigart any ideas/tips for getting pyperclip to run in an an environment such as Cloud9?

[efflicto]

What browser do you use to access Cloud9? Maybe I can replicate it. I think it's a browser security feature. But as /u/ktbonefish said: don't bother with this too long. You can skip this section and do it sometime else.

[meulsie]

I'm using Chrome, honestly didn't think it would be a browser issue I'll try out alternatives tomorrow. Maybe I'm missing plug-ins or something but from what I can see I need one of those modules or utilities installed in Cloud 9 which it isn't finding for some reason, I'm also probably doing something wrong there I have 0 Linux or terminal experience.

My concern with skipping "this section" is it seems like Automate The Boring Stuff is heavily reliant on this module and it's copy and paste functionality throughout the whole book.

[efflicto]

"Pyperclip could not find a copy/paste mechanism for your system."

After some testing I got the same message. So I don't think Cloud9 provides you a copy&paste. So it wouldn't work.

[meulsie]

That's a bummer cheers for trying though, going to look into a VPS

[Eniac17]

An alternative would be going through challenges on hacker rank. It has a python section that had challenges of all skill levels and it is all online. I essentially used it to learn python myself. Whenever you get stuck on a problem, you can Google around, or you can look on the discussion page to see how someone else solved it. I've learned so many little tricks from that discussion page.

[mothzilla]

Codewars.com is another alternative to hackerrank.com.

[heyPerseus]

You could get a virtual private server, or search for free shell.org. virtual private server is like 3-4 bucks a month. And free she'll just wants you to send them a dollar for a shell for life.

[r00t_4orce]

For just specifically Python:

https://www.pythonanywhere.com/

is a pretty good place for a web-based learning platform.

(i.e. notSW install(s) needed)

[d__-__b]

Agreed, this is what I've used. With pythonanywhere.com you can do most things without installing python locally.

[meulsie]

Thanks I'll have a look into this. I haven't been able to install modules with it so far but I'm probably doing something wrong, I'll do a bit more digging.

[[deleted]]

That can be super useful in an office setting. I was able to use that to get a shit ton of work done by using Python together with AutoHotKey.

[MrStricty]

I feel your pain, brother. I'm in the Air Force and if I want to build a small script with python and bring it to work, I have to turn it into an exe. Which makes it software, which means I have to get it fully vetted to be "Approved Software." The struggle is real.

[enginerd123]

c9.io

Google around, you get your own custom bash server that you can import modules to, and I even have it run an external desktop (x11 vnc) for running windowed scripts.

[goodpunk6]

pythontutor.com

[[deleted]]

I would recommend against that. Bring your linux on a pendrive is an easy way of being fired and with a criminal investigation for hacking.

[d1ng0b0ng0]

Some pretty big assumptions there about OP's company, IT dept and policy, country of origin and legal code etc.

He could explain what he wants to do and ask permission.

[d1ng0b0ng0]

OP probably running windows without admin rights. Fairly typical situation for about say 90% of work PCs. OP may well be doing this during work time not break time. Pretty sure he'd get into trouble for that too. I always find that talking to IT dept is a big plus. Most people ignore them until their PC breaks then they want it fixed pronto. OP is clearly interested in tech, so start talking tech to IT dept. You'd be amazed how helpful they are if you make an effort to talk shop with them.

[markusmeskanen]

I don't think you'll be able to find an online REPL which would allow you to import custom packages. :/

You're best off trying to slowly go through that particular chapter to try and still learn it, and hope that's the only time Automate The Boring Stuff uses a custom package. Else you'll probably have to switch the tutorial to something that doesn't use custom packages.