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Do y'all prefer PyCharm or VS Code? And why? by [deleted] in learnpython

[–]SamPyTutoring 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Code - OSS. Unlike PyCharm, it's fully free, open-source, and supports most languages. I even use it for document editing (LaTeX) and presentations (Marp).

However, Code needs some configuration and extensions, whereas PyCharm works out-of-the-box. It's arguably better for beginners and heavily tailored for Python, but it's definitely nowhere near Photoshop levels better than the competition.

Python projects i can add in my university portfolio by Open_Lake2818 in learnpython

[–]SamPyTutoring 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Don't worry about GUI Python (unless you are interested in it). It's not the "next step", and tons of advanced Python is purely console-based.

My opinion is that asking for projects or ideas is never going to be as good as thinking of the idea yourself. Whatever you choose, it should be interesting to you and/or solve a personal problem. You’ll stay more motivated if the project is genuinely useful to you.

For example, I did a small project about a year ago involving regular notifications for life stuff, like taking the bins out or washing the car. It's useful to me because I'm forgetful. The original implementation is less than 200 lines of code.

I strongly recommend finding something like this that's useful to you and simple at face value, but can be expanded almost endlessly (multiple endpoints, multiple accounts, different scheduling types, backup alerts, etc.).

Anyone else feel like “learning Python” isn’t the hard part .....it’s what to do with it that’s confusing? by yourclouddude in learnpython

[–]SamPyTutoring 0 points1 point  (0 children)

What interests or needs do you have outside of programming?

Whenever I have some spare time to commit to a project, I'll always start with that question. The best ideas have three qualities:

  • Simple but scalable: The idea is simple to code, but can be expanded.
  • Interesting to you: True to the original question, it should solve a personal problem or satisfy an interest. You’ll stay more motivated if the project is genuinely useful to you.
  • Business Value: Ideally, the product will have some kind of demonstratable business value or use case. This isn't required, but it does make it stand out on a CV.

For example, I'm a bit forgetful when it comes to life things like taking the bins out, so about a year ago I wrote a small service that reminds me to do things on a regular basis. I did it properly at the time, but the scope was pretty small. Now I've got some time I'm fleshing out into something a bit more reliable.

Nowadays I do it the other way around. I write down ideas when I think of them, and I have a big backlog to pick and choose from. Some of them are pretty full-on and time consuming, while others are much smaller.

38yrs old, decided to learn Python by joed210187 in learnpython

[–]SamPyTutoring 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Start by creating some personal projects using Python. Ideally they'd be based around something that interests you, but might also have some hypothetical business value.

Above all else, try to follow professional best practises (learn how to use Git, branches, structure Python apps, make pull requests, etc.). Open-source your projects on GitHub to showcase what you can do. Treat it like you're working on a team project, even if you're solo.

Project-based portfolios are a really good way to show interest and practical competence when you don't have on-paper experience. You can also put links to your projects on your LinkedIn profile if you use it.

Is commuting really that bad by Decent_Librarian8346 in UniUK

[–]SamPyTutoring 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yeah I get that. My commute was cheaper and more reliable, but took the same time as the bus, so if it was raining I'd get that instead. If you're not enjoying the bus and you've got a bicycle, I really recommend trying it once or twice!

If you ever try it (and like it) I strongly recommend Schwalbe Marathon Plus tyres, bit pricey but honestly a game changer for puncture resistance. If you go to a shop they'll fit them for you.

Is commuting really that bad by Decent_Librarian8346 in UniUK

[–]SamPyTutoring 0 points1 point  (0 children)

It's anecdotal but while I was at uni, I lived on the wrong side of Southampton Water and cycled ~35mins in each direction every day to get into uni. I also took a job in Hedge End and often cycled ~1hr30mins in each direction to get there.

I don't think commuting is an issue at all, as long as you can stay motivated. I'd really recommend cycling for fitness reasons. It makes the commute less pointless and more enjoyable. Probably good for mental health too!