Python Crash Course, 3rd Edition: A Hands-On, Project-Based Introduction to Programming

This has been a really strong textbook for starting Python from scratch, especially if you’re worried about coding books being dry or intimidating. Concepts are introduced clearly and built up step by step, with examples and exercises that actually make sense rather than assuming prior knowledge. What really stood out for me is how approachable it is. Instead of long, abstract explanations, it focuses on practical examples and small projects, so you can see immediately how things work and why they matter. It feels structured without being overwhelming, and it’s easy to dip back into specific sections when you need a refresher. If you’re new to Python and want something that teaches properly without sucking the joy out of learning, this does a very good job of striking that balance. It’s informative, well paced, and genuinely engaging.

Absolutely loved this book. I’m going back to University to study computer science and the main language used in the course is Python. This book from beginning to end explains how to load python on your device, including installing code editors to make programming more intuitive and all the troubleshooting involved. This was great because it didn’t just start straight at learning Python itself, but also preparing you for all the snags you may hit on your device and setting you up nicely. Using examples, the book gives examples of different coding structures and concepts, before giving you practice questions to have a go at. Near the end of the book, you’ll also have the opportunity to build some projects using concepts you’ve been learning which utilises libraries found commonly in a professional setting such as Django and Matplotlib, all of which are explained clearly as well. After finishing the book, I feel a lot more comfortable with Python and feel I have a great foundation to build upon. The Author (Eric Matthes) also seems to be pretty active online, so any particular knicks you come across I’m sure he’ll be responsive. Overall, I can’t think of a better place to start learning python. A must buy in my opinion.

I brought it despite it being rather expensive as all the reviews here and on YouTube recommend it as the best. They are right to do this. I brought some other books first and almost gave up before I started the right book really does make a difference here. It's small manageable sections that are clearly explained that tell you all you need to know as a beginner so you don't get bogged down with rare use cases but still have all the info you need. The exercises are small that even if you don't have much time or attention you can still managed a project easily and learn a concept thought actuall use. and most of the examples are useful you can see where they could be applied in real life and not so oversimplified as to become almost meaningless as I have seen before.

I am only 100 pages in to this and absolutely love it. I have wasted a lot of time trying to follow free YouTube tutorials that either didn't click. A lot of the times they glossed over important concepts or didn't define terminology used. In many cases free courses were provided by people as a gate way to sell their main courses. This book has been my perfect solution. so far it has made easy work of installing Python and a text editor, worked through variables, for loops and data structures such as lists. Everything is concise and is dealt with in a beginner friendly way that actually makes sense and gets you writing code immediately. For me, so this is far better than any Udemy course, YouTube video etc. highly recommend . For Stars as i haven't yet finished the book and will update when i have

Great book to learn Python, as the title says - CRASH COURSE. And that's EXACTLY what it is. I learned to program in C a little over 30 years ago and have been wanting to get into Python for about 5 years and finally bit the bullet. One thing that is tripping me up is the questions in the 'Try it yourself' sections as I am not fully understanding the questions due to the way they're worded. I am having to turn to Google GEMINI for help in wording the questions so that I can understand them.

This book is streets ahead of some of the other Python books I have seen/read. It is perfect for beginners and intermediate programmers. The book starts by assuming no knowledge of Python and provides comprehensive instructions on installing Python and Microsoft VSCODE across different platforms. (Other IDEs are discussed, but the author recommends VSCODE). It also covers tweaking the VSCODE configuration to best suit a programmers needs. It then goes on to lead the reader gently into Python coding with plenty of examples, and exercises to consolidate learning. I can't find anything negative to say about this book - the fact that it has been updated, revised and republished so many times is a testament to its popularity and worth. Its not cheap, but any programming book worth its salt, isn't, and its well worth the investment.

Clearly explained, and starts at the beginning, assuming no prior knowledge. As anyone who has ever coded knows the devil is in the detail, and this book tells you how to install on a PC/mac & then systematically introduces all the necessary syntax . If you want to learn to code then this is the book you want.... if you want AI to write your code get the Dummies book.

I've a little background knowledge on Python however need to brush up on the basics. This is a great book, I'm more than halfway through it and can say this will help anyone wanting to learn the language. The book instruction and explanations are made easy to follow and with added exercises to practise what has been learnt is a perfect approach. It's easy to read but then sitting down in front of the keyboard really puts oneself to the challenge. Do give this a go if you want to learn or brush up on the basics too!

I've read it all and completed all the exercises, so I can say it's amazing! The content is great for learning Python from scratch. The explanations are very good, everything is well explained step by step. The quality of the printing and the paper is very good.

Awesome

Libro splendido, chiaro e ricco di esempi

I purchased two other instruction books that were frustrating and explained nothing. The fact that the author was a teacher makes a huge difference. He understands how to teach people because he did it for 25 years. This book may be more expensive than those learn python on one day books written by programmers with no teaching experience and with help of AI, but this is far superior.

¡Buenísimo para aprender a programar mientras pulo mi inglés! Vendedor y producto recomendado a toda la comunidad de Amazon.