Programming · StudentHub Lesson

Intro to Python

Get started writing your first Python programs, from print statements to basic input.

20 minBeginner

What you will learn

Write and run a basic Python program
Use print() to display output
Use input() to accept user input
Understand Python's simple, readable syntax
Combine variables, conditionals, and loops in a small program

Watch the lesson

Python for Beginners – Full Course [Programming Tutorial] · freeCodeCamp.org

Watch on YouTube

Topic notes

Main Idea

Python is a beginner-friendly programming language known for its clean, readable syntax, making it a great first language.

Key Concepts

print() displays output to the screen
input() collects text input from the user
Python uses indentation instead of braces to define code blocks
Comments start with # and are ignored by Python

Definitions

Interpreter: a program that runs Python code line by line
Syntax: the rules governing how code must be written
Comment: a note in code ignored by the interpreter, starting with #

Syntax

```python

This is a comment

name = input("What is your name? ")

print("Hello, " + name)

```

Examples

A simple greeting program using input() and print()
Combining a variable, an if statement, and a loop in one small script

Common Mistakes

Mixing tabs and spaces, causing indentation errors
Forgetting parentheses when calling print() or input()
Not converting input() results (always strings) before math operations

Key concepts

print() and input()Python syntax basicsIndentation rulesComments

Important terms

Interpreter: A program that executes Python code line by line
Comment: Text in code ignored by the interpreter, used for notes

Worked examples

Problem

Write a program that asks for a name and greets the user

1. name = input('What is your name? ')
2. print('Hello, ' + name)

Answer: Hello, <name>

Quick revision

print() shows output on screen
input() collects user text
Indentation defines Python code blocks
Comments start with #
input() always returns a string

Check your understanding

Question 1 · Multiple choice

Which function displays text on the screen in Python?

Question 2 · Multiple choice

What symbol starts a comment in Python?

Question 3 · True or false

input() always returns a string, even if the user types a number.

Question 4 · Short answer

What does Python use instead of curly braces to define code blocks?

Question 5 · Short answer

Write code to print 'Hi there!'

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