Python has been around in some form since the early 1990s. In the last few years, it has emerged as one of the most used programming languages on the planet. Offering a streamlined approach to programming, Python is the obvious choice for beginners and entry-level coders. However, it’s also popular with professional developers, with seemingly endless applications. It can be used to create websites, complete data scraping exercises, test software, and more.
Python Explained
Python is a multipurpose programming language and one of the most used of its kind. It’s regularly used to create software, build websites, and perform data analysis. It’s also becoming increasingly used in automation.
Python’s general-purpose design makes it incredibly versatile and suitable for a wide range of tasks. It also makes it one of the most user-friendly programming languages around and a good fit for beginners with limited experience. As of 2021, Python was the most used programming language with developers, with an impressive 29.69% market share.
Python’s Real-World Applications
Thanks to its versatility, Python has been readily adopted by professionals across multiple industry sectors. It’s commonly used in website and software design, as well as for data visualisation and analysis tasks.
Unlike other programming languages, Python is accessible. This makes it highly suited to everyday applications, with no in-depth programming knowledge required to utilise it.
Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence
Python has proved its worth as a programming language for artificial intelligence. Unlike other programming languages, Python is incredibly stable, making it well suited to building virtual models for machine learning. It’s also been put to use in real-world situations, with Python forming the backbone of everyday data processing and advanced image recognition solutions.
Website and Application Development
Python is particularly popular in the web development sector and a go-to programming language for back-end developers. Python boasts several web development frameworks, with Pyramid, Flask, and Django being the most utilised.
Each of these frameworks come with standard libraries that allow for far simpler protocol integration compared to other programming languages. This makes Python especially useful for programmers looking to shorten development timelines.
Data Scraping
Companies requiring access to vast reserves of data have embraced Python for web scraping applications. For many organisations, these customer data piles are vital resources that steer critical decisions and make all the difference when it comes to securing a profit.
Python offers several innovative tools, including MechanicalSoup and Python Request, that can be used to build effective applications for web scraping purposes.
An Efficient Choice for Automation
If you’re regularly repeating the same tasks, Python can help make your life easier. This programming language allows you to easily write code that can automate business-critical processes.
The applications for automation are endless. You can use code built with Python to remove duplicate values in huge stacks of data, perform simple formulas, and quickly identify errors.
Other Everyday Uses for Python
Python isn’t the preserve of professional industries. This accessible programming language can also be leveraged to help anyone complete everyday tasks.
Even those with minimal programming knowledge can put Python to good use. You can use it to automatically complete fields in online forms, convert file types, and rename files on a significant scale.
Why You Should Be Using Python
Python uses a basic syntax that heavily matches English. This makes it easier for novices to understand, but also allows for quicker builds and revisions. It’s also incredibly versatile. Once you’ve polished up on the basics, you can use it for everything from setting reminders for everyday schedules to undertaking back-end web development tasks.
Python is also free to use, meaning entry-level programmers don’t need to worry about shelling out for advanced features. Python users also have access to third-party libraries and modules that greatly enhance their programming potential.
Furthermore, the Python community is incredibly large and one of the most active of its kind. In addition to ensuring libraries and modules are constantly updated, this huge support network means that entry-level coders can quickly identify a solution to any issues they’re encountering.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an accessible programming language with practical applications, Python is the obvious choice. Python is the ideal language for introducing yourself to coding, while the extensive support network means you’re unlikely to experience a stumbling block you can’t traverse. Once you’ve mastered the basics for automating everyday tasks, Python will continue to serve you well as you integrate it into your professional endeavours. As of 2021, companies including NASA, Wikipedia, Amazon, and Google all use Python as a scripting language of choice.
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About the Author
Greg Tuohy is the Managing Director of Docutec, a business printer and office automation software provider. Greg was appointed Managing Director in June 2011 and is the driving force behind the team at the Cantec Group. Immediately after completing a Science degree at UCC in 1995, Greg joined the family copier/printer business. Docutec also make printers for family homes too such as multifunction printers.
