1. Why Python?

This chapter covers What a computer and a program are, and why you’d want to write a program What Python is and why it’s so great Installing Python

If you’ve picked up this book, you’re probably trying to learn how to program. Congratulations! Not many people set out to learn programming, but it’s one of the most interesting and rewarding subjects that you can teach yourself. Programming is the new literacy; if you’re not sure how to write a simple program, whether as a batch file, mail filter, or formula in a spreadsheet, you’re at a disadvantage compared to those who do. Programming is also a lever. With programming, you can turn your ideas into reality.