I'm currently in 11th grade and taking computer science classes online. I used to enjoy the subject, but I'm hitting a wall with Python right now. Even though I know it's often seen as the easiest language, the classes are poorly designed and I'm not grasping the concepts. I'm looking for recommendations on good books or websites where I can actually practice coding, as just reading the material isn't cutting it for me.
5 Answers
I totally get where you're coming from! Picking up some solid Python books can really make a difference. One I recommend is "Beginning Python: From Novice to Professional" by Magnus Lie Hetland. It's a great resource for understanding the basics and getting hands-on practice. Just dive into the sections where you need more focus and keep grinding until you master them!
Books are definitely the way to go! Skipping over the parts you know while really diving into the tough sections is a great strategy.
Have you tried "Learn Python The Hard Way" by Zed Shaw? You can find a PDF online, and the lessons are short and focused on simple scripts with discussions that help ease you into coding. Just remember to practice on your own alongside the lessons!
If you're looking for a more hands-on approach, check out the MOOC 'Python Programming 2025' from the University of Helsinki. It's free and full of practical exercises. For smaller problems, Codingbat is a great site, and for bigger challenges, try Exercism. Both will really help you build your skills!
Consider "Coffee Break Python"—it's filled with light, daily exercises focused on reading code rather than just writing it. It'll help you understand what’s happening behind the scenes. There's also John Guttag's 'Introduction to Computation and Programming' if you're looking for a more traditional CS textbook. Some might prefer 'Python for Everyone,' which is even free to download for older editions!
You can also check out roadmap.sh for a structured learning path in Python. It’s super helpful in providing context and outlining what you need to learn next.
Another awesome book is "Impractical Python Projects." It can help you work on real projects, which is a fun way to practice! Definitely worth checking out.