Overview
Welcome to the Python Programming Fundamentals lab. In this module, you will be provided with the instructions and devices needed to develop your hands-on skills.
Learning Outcomes:
In this module, you will complete the following exercises:
- Exercise 1 - Working with Primitive Data Types in Python
- Exercise 2 - Working with Arrays/Lists in Python
- Exercise 3 - Working with Functions in Python
After completing this lab, you will be able to:
- Work with primitive data types in Python.
- Work with arrays/lists in Python.
- Work with functions in Python.
Key terms and descriptions
Char
Represents a single character. In Python, this is just a string of length 1 (e.g., 'A')
String
A sequence of characters enclosed in quotes ("Hello")
Integer
Whole numbers (e.g., 5, -2)
Float
Decimal numbers (e.g., 3.14, -0.5)
Boolean
Logical values representing truth (True or False)
Identifier
The name used to identify variables, functions, classes, etc
Variable
A storage location identified by a name (e.g., x = 10)
Constant
A variable that should not change. In Python, uppercase names (e.g., PI = 3.14) are used by convention
Array
A collection of items. In Python, this is implemented as a list (e.g., colors = ['red', 'blue'])
Function
A reusable block of code (e.g., def greet():)
Object
An instance of a class containing data and behavior
Property
Data associated with an object (e.g., self.name in a class)
Attribute
Another term for properties in Python's object model
Method
A function that belongs to an object (e.g., my_object.do_something())
Pseudocode
Informal description of a program’s logic, not written in actual code
Object-Oriented Methods
Techniques using objects and classes to structure code
Documentation
Comments and written explanations to help understand code
Sequence
Code statements executed one after another
Branching
Conditional execution using if, elif, else
Looping
Repeating code using for or while loops