M02 Introducing Python

Topics

• Running Python code.
• Python’s basic data types.
• Python’s primary operators associated with each data type.
• Python’s built-in data structures.

Outcomes

• Run Python from the command line on Rivanna.
• Create and run a Jupyter Notebook on Rivanna.
• Describe the difference between data from the perspective of data science versus computer science.
• Know the primary data types in Python and their basic operators.
• Know the built-in list-like data structures in Python and the basic methods and functions associated with them.

Readings

Required

• Katz and Katz 2019, Section 1, Preparing the Workspace
• Lutz, Learning Python, Part I: Getting Started, Chapter 2
• Lutz, Learning Python, Part I: Getting Started, Chapter 3
• Lutz, Learning Python, Part II: Types and Operations, Chapters 4–9

Optional

• Katz and Katz 2019, Section 1, First Steps in Coding - Variables and Data Types
• Built-in Types (Official)
• Python Data Types (GFG)
• Python Operators (W3S)
• Immutable vs Mutable Data Types in Python (Medium)