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9 Introduction to Python

Pre-Processing
Pre-Processing
• What is Python? • Features of Python
• Starting Python • Components of Python IDLE Window
• Python Working Modes • Working in Script Mode
• Understanding Variables • Input and Output Operations in Python

• Comments in Programs

Computer programs are written in languages that the computer
understands and can execute. These languages are known as
Programming languages. C, C++, Visual Basic, and Java are examples
of popular programming languages.
You have learned about the basics of programming using Scratch 3. Let us learn about a new
programming language – Python. Python is an easy language to understand and work with.

WHAT IS PYTHON?
Python is an interpreted, object-oriented, high-level programming language for general-
purpose programming. It was developed during the 1980s by Guido van Rossum, and
its first version was released and implemented in 1991. Python’s simple, easy-to-learn
syntax emphasises readability and therefore reduces the cost of program creation and
maintenance.

The standard development environment of Python is called Integrated Development and Learning
Environment (IDLE), and it is suitable for beginners to learn programming in Python. It lets a user
write, debug, and execute code from the same interface. The Python text editor has features,
such as auto-complete, syntax highlighting, smart indents, and dynamic typing.
Many large organisations all over the world use Python. These include Wikipedia, Google, Yahoo!,
CERN, NASA, Facebook, Amazon, Instagram, and Spotify.

FEATURES OF PYTHON
1. Python is easy to learn and use. It is a programmer-friendly language.
2. It is an interpreted language, i.e., the code is
executed line by line at a time.
3. It is portable and machine-independent. The
same code written on one computer can be
copied and executed on any other computer.
4. It supports object-oriented programming and the
concepts of classes and objects.

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