Learn to Code by Solving Problems (Paperback)

Paperback. 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.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 variablesWrite programs that make decisionsMake code more efficient with while and for loopsUse Python sets, lists, and dictionaries to organize, sort, and search dataDesign programs using functions and top-down designCreate complete-search algorithms and use Big O notation to design more efficient codeBy 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. "Teaches readers how to use Python to solve short, situational competitive programming problems. Each chapter requires the reader to learn a new feature or function of Python in order to solve a problem, while emphasizing basic programming concepts, problem-solving strategies, and critical thinking skills"-- Shipping may be from multiple locations in the US or from the UK, depending on stock availability. …