Python For Dummies

Description

* Python is an open source, object-oriented language that's now used by an estimated 900,000 developers for scripting applications as well as stand-alone programs
* This accessible introductory guide covers basic programming concepts, explains how Python differs from other object-oriented languages (Perl, Java, and C++), and shows how to install it on all platforms (Linux/Unix, Windows, and Mac OS X)
* Walks readers step by step through the construction of real applications
* Topics covered include working with Python building blocks (functions, modules, packages, control structures, and dictionaries), using Python libraries, accessing the Internet, and creating graphical interfaces

Table of Contents

Introduction.

Part I: Getting Started.

Chapter 1: Introducing Python.

Chapter 2: Getting Your Hands on the Keyboard: Using Help, Interactive Mode, and IDLE.

Chapter 3: Basic Elements and Syntax.

Chapter 4: Grand Tour of the Python Language.

Chapter 5: Working Like a Programmer.

Part II: Building Blocks.

Chapter 6: So This String Walks into a Bar.

Chapter 7: Counting Your Way to Fun and Profit.

Chapter 8: Processing Lists and Tuples.

Chapter 9: Diving into Dictionaries.

Part III: Structures.

Chapter 10: Staying in Control.

Chapter 11: Fun with Functions.

Chapter 12: Building Applications with Modules and Packages.

Chapter 13: Getting Classy.

Chapter 14: Introducing New-Style Classes.

Chapter 15: Feeling Exceptional.

Chapter 16: Tackling Some Advanced Features.

Part IV: Libraries.

Chapter 17: Using Python’s Primary Services.

Chapter 18: Processing Text.

Chapter 19: Digging into Disk Data.

Chapter 20: Accessing the Internet.

Part V: The Part of Tens.

Chapter 21: Ten Critical Python Idioms.

Chapter 22: Ten Great Resources.

Part VI: Appendixes.

Appendix A: Getting and Installing Python.

Appendix B: Python Version Differences.

Index.