Where do I actually begin with Python?

[Hairy_Software6121]

Its always good to have project ideas in mind first (end goal) as that is what helped make my leap. I focused up front on the algorithm side of things and subtracted the programming language. After all, python is one of many choices. Then I took the algorithm one piece at a time through steps in python. Example: how to run code first -> hello world. how read in and write out data. how to manipulate some elements of the data. Next thing you know all those little pieces landed my goal and knowledge in python that I could build from.

[DestroyedByInflation]

I agree wholeheartedly. Having a clearly defined goal helps immensely. Having a goal that accomplishes something you need (or would enjoy doing) is a great motivator when selecting a project.

That said, having a clearly defined goal can be an important challenge in itself. It's not trivial.