Python Programming 101

This first chapter introduces Python to readers that have never programmed in Python before. It also provides instructions for installing Python on your computer. The Wing Integrated Development Environment (IDE) is recommended for students learning to program. Wing IDE 101 is the free version of the IDE for educational use. The chapter goes on to introduce classes, objects, and object-oriented programming by developing a drawing application using the Tkinter graphical user interface library. An understanding of object-oriented programming concepts presented in this chapter is necessary before reading the rest of the text. The PyList datatype presented in this chapter is also used in subsequent chapters including Chap. 2. Even if the reader has worked through an introductory text or has a basic understanding of Python, there are concepts from this first chapter that are used throughout the text.