It is simply the best.
One of the hardest decisions to make as a novel programmer is deciding which language to learn. We are spoilt with hundreds of choices ranging from Java to Ruby on Rails to Golang, but how do we know where to begin? I found myself in the same situation — overwhelmed and confused. Alas, this was until I entered the world of Python and realised it was the way to go.
1. It’s everywhere
The simplest and probably most obvious reason to choose Python as a beginner is that it’s the most popular language in the world. In fact, according to SlashData, there are now 8.2 million developers using Python worldwide and growing! I knew that I would never be short on material, and millions of other Python enthusiasts would be asking the same questions as me. There are countless tutorials and resources online that covers everything you could possibly think of. This was a huge factor in my decision to learn Python first. It is important that as you are entering the world of programming you are able to access quality materials.
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2. It’s easy
Python is a great language to learn because it is a high-level language. This is another way of saying it has a simple vocabulary. This feature makes it easy to pick up and allows you to progress faster. You can focus on having the right logic rather than if you have forgotten a semi-colon at the end of a statement. It’s designed to be English like — the use of whitespace and common expressions makes it very appealing and clean. Python also has hundreds of libraries which reduces the amount of code you need to write and also abstracts all the complicated stuff away so that you can get a working project up and running.
3. Money, money, money
Google. Facebook. Instagram. Netflix. All are companies which use Python somewhere in their operations and are still using it till this day. Python had the largest demand for jobs in 2020 and was also ranked with the highest average salary earned among programming languages in 2020. This makes it a lucrative skill to have and one that will be for a long time. Python provides many chances to make money, and this was demonstrated by the YouTuber, Tech With Tim, who was able to make $500 from freelancing on Fiverr by creating games in Python. There are plenty of opportunities to make money, no matter which speciality you choose.
4. You can do everything and anything
The amazing thing with Python is that once you are familiar with the language, the possibilities are endless. With Python, you can build websites using the Django framework, create GUIs (Graphical User Interface), perform data analysis using Pandas, and the list goes on. It gives you the skills to create whatever you want and the opportunity to tackle real-life problems. It can also be the stepping stone into learning new languages. Python is an object-oriented language much like Java, C++ and other popular languages. If you are looking to pursue a career in software development, having a good grasp of programming in one area will allow you to easily adapt to the nuances of other languages. This is true for any programming language as the core principles remain the same in any medium. However, Python acts as a friendly introduction into the vast world of programming.
5. It’s still hot
I’m sure that everyone has heard of AI and the amazing things it can do. Chances are the algorithms behind these incredible programs are implemented in Python. It has packages which have been created specifically for Machine Learning and Data Analysis making it a very in-demand language. Furthermore, these packages are getting more advanced and widespread which is creating even more demand for programmers experienced in Python. Additionally, Python forms the basis for many applications apart from AI, and the need to maintain and upgrade these systems with the latest technology is always there. As a Python programmer, you will always be in demand.
All in all, Python would be my top recommendation to anyone looking to starting programming or even fluent programmers who are looking for new opportunities. It provides the launchpad into your career as a programmer and also the chance to make money on the side. It is a truly rewarding skill and must be added to the list of new year’s resolutions.
