SIC7 - Stage 1: Hands-on Session: Python Project

Introduction

This tutorial provides a hands-on guide to a Python project as part of the Samsung Innovation Campus program. It is designed for beginners looking to gain practical experience with Python programming. The steps outlined will guide you through the project from setup to execution, enhancing your programming skills and understanding of Python.

Step 1: Setting Up Your Environment

Before starting your Python project, ensure you have the right tools and environment configured.

• Install Python: Download the latest version of Python from the official website (python.org) and follow the installation instructions for your operating system.
• Choose an IDE: Select an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) such as PyCharm, Visual Studio Code, or Jupyter Notebook for coding.
• Install Necessary Libraries: Open your terminal or command prompt and run the following commands to install common libraries:

  pip install numpy pandas matplotlib
  

Step 2: Creating a New Python File

Once your environment is ready, create a new Python file to start coding.

• Open your IDE and create a new project.
• Create a new file: Name it something relevant, like my_first_project.py.
• Organize your files: Maintain a clear structure for your project by organizing files into folders as necessary.

Step 3: Writing Your First Code

Now it’s time to write some basic Python code.

• Basic Syntax: Start with a simple print statement to confirm your setup works.

  print("Hello, World!")
  

• Run Your Code: Use your IDE's run feature or execute the file through the terminal:

  python my_first_project.py
  

Step 4: Building a Simple Function

Next, you'll create a simple function to perform a specific task.

• Define a Function: Write a function that adds two numbers together.

  def add_numbers(a, b):
      return a + b
  

• Call the Function: Test your function by calling it and printing the result.

  result = add_numbers(5, 3)
  print("The sum is:", result)
  

Step 5: Incorporating User Input

Enhance your project by allowing user input for dynamic results.

• Using input(): Modify your code to accept user input.

  num1 = int(input("Enter first number: "))
  num2 = int(input("Enter second number: "))
  result = add_numbers(num1, num2)
  print("The sum is:", result)
  

Step 6: Adding Error Handling

To make your project more robust, implement error handling.

• Try-Except Block: Wrap your input code in a try-except block to handle invalid inputs.

  try:
      num1 = int(input("Enter first number: "))
      num2 = int(input("Enter second number: "))
      result = add_numbers(num1, num2)
      print("The sum is:", result)
  except ValueError:
      print("Please enter valid integers.")
  

Conclusion

In this tutorial, you've learned how to set up your Python environment, write basic code, create functions, handle user input, and implement error handling. These foundational skills are crucial for more complex Python projects. As your next steps, consider exploring more advanced Python topics or working on larger projects to further develop your skills. Happy coding!