Learning to Program in Python Crash Course in Coding for Python 3.x Beginners Guide in Programming with Examples and Challenges GCSE and A Level Computer Science Course textbook KS4 KS5

I bought this book ("Learning to Program in Python" by P M Heathcote) from Amazon after reading a lot of reviews. It's only 120 pages (meaning it's not too daunting), but it's an excellent book with a lot of code to try, and very good "sign-posting" (by which I mean, I mean it uses of a lot of tables, headings and emboldened "keywords", with a helpful and pleasant use of coloured font).It has 15 chapters and I'm only up to chapter 4, but it is giving me a very thorough understanding, and is a real pleasure to work through.If a book assumes no prior knowledge, it has to explain absolutely everything (it is difficult for the author to know how far back to go). It would then be boring for most people, who are only seeking new knowledge. For this reason most authors assume some prior knowledge. So the success of a book depends to a large extent on the existing knowledge of the reader. In slightly different words, a book has to suite a reader's existing knowledge.This book assumes no prior knowledge of "Python", but it probably assumes some prior "programming experience" (this is difficult for me to judge because I have prior programming experience, though from a long time ago).Anyway, this book suites my existing knowledge very well. It also addresses my current requirement, which is a good introduction to, and "grounding" in, Python. In addition, it acts as a very useful reference document (full of useful accessible, material).The book recommends working through the exercises. I am working through all examples and most of the very good exercises. So far, this has always given me the understanding I need. On rare occasions, I couldn't fully understand the author's explanation. But, after I had worked through the exercises, and used the "compilation assistance" (the pop-up notes on my PC), I always overcame these problems and got the examples to work. The author's explanation, together with the compatible example and exercises, gave me a full understanding.

I love this book, cos it is written in plain language without writing too much, but focusing on what is important. In reference to literature, I love long picturesque descriptions with loads of metaphors, similes and abstract phenomenon. However, this book should not be thought-inspiring and let you hit the sky. It is supposed to focus your thoughts and correlate with sth. that has got only one interpretation-one truth like in Maths. This book teaches you Python in a clear and beautiful way. Highly recommend it.

This is a book written by a school teacher, so it lacks the arrogant "I know best" of most 'professional' guides to programming. It is a very useful start.

I have bought many books on learning Python (circa. 30), but this is the best so far. It enabled several breakthroughs for me. The exercises are thought provoking and extensive. No errors found to date. Whilst the number of pages is low compared to some, it uses the space very well. A good comprehensive starter text.

"Good old Heathcoat" was what I first thought when I saw this text book. I'm so glad she hasn't retired from writing, its been a while since I came across any of her books.As a Computers teacher, I have bought quite a few Python books, mostly with the intention of using parts in the classroom for teaching. I have spent easily £250 on text books in the past two years, none of them come close to this. From GCSE and up I would recommend 100%

Good seller. Received the book in good condition.We bought this book for our sons studying Computer science at GCSE level. They said it was good and will help them with the GCSE.

No issues

Great for A level computer science