Learn to Code by Solving Problems

Daniel Zingaro

ISBN 10: 1718501323 / ISBN 13: 9781718501324

Published by No Starch Press,US, US, 2021

About this Item

Learn to Program by Solving Problems is a practical introduction to programming using Python, one of the world's most popular programming languages. The book emphasises problem-solving strategies that teach readers not only the mechanics of coding, but how to think like savvy programmers. Teaches readers how to use Python to solve short, situational problems (for example, how to predict when a gambler will run out of money while playing slot machines; how to create a programme to track cell phone data usage; how to set up a system of identifying the popularity of berths in a parking lot).

Seller Inventory # LU-9781718501324

Bibliographic Details

• Title: Learn to Code by Solving Problems
• Publisher: No Starch Press,US, US
• Publication Date: 2021
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1718501323
• ISBN 13: 9781718501324
• Binding: Paperback
• Condition: New

About this title

Synopsis

Learn to Code by Solving Problems is a practical introduction to programming using Python. It uses coding-competition challenges to teach you the mechanics of coding and how to think like a savvy programmer.

Computers are capable of solving almost any problem when given the right instructions. That’s where programming comes in. This beginner’s book will have you writing Python programs right away. You’ll solve interesting problems drawn from real coding competitions and build your programming skills as you go.
 
Every chapter presents problems from coding challenge websites, where online judges test your solutions and provide targeted feedback. As you practice using core Python features, functions, and techniques, you’ll develop a clear understanding of data structures, algorithms, and other programming basics. Bonus exercises invite you to explore new concepts on your own, and multiple-choice questions encourage you to think about how each piece of code works.
 
You’ll learn how to:

Run Python code, work with strings, and use variables

Write programs that make decisions

Make code more efficient with while and for loops

Use Python sets, lists, and dictionaries to organize, sort, and search data

Design programs using functions and top-down design

Create complete-search algorithms and use Big O notation to design more efficient code

 
By the end of the book, you’ll not only be proficient in Python, but you’ll also understand how to think through problems and tackle them with code. Programming languages come and go, but this book gives you the lasting foundation you need to start thinking like a programmer.
 

About the Author

Dr. Daniel Zingaro is an award-winning Associate Professor of Computer Science in the teaching stream at University of Toronto Mississauga, and is internationally recognized for his expertise in Active Learning. He is also the author of Algorithmic Thinking (No Starch Press, 2021).