Problem Solving with Python takes an explicit problem-solving approach to the introduction of computer programming and computational thinking, emphasizing the programmer's role in problem definition, expressing, evaluating, and implementing solutions, and evaluating results. Programming constructs are presented as tools for the solution of classes of problems, using the problems as motivation for mastering the tools.
The field of computer science is broad, deep, and continually growing, and impacts nearly every quarter of our modern lives. Computer scientists, therefore, need to be lifelong learners. This book encourages curiosity and guides exploration, experimentation, and the meaningful evaluation of results. The book emphasizes the problem-solving process throughout, but especially in the final sections of each chapter and in the Try this and Challenge accepted! problem sections, in which readers are encouraged to engage in productive and meaningful experimentation and reflection. These sections are suitable for laboratory exercises, as starting points for classroom discussion, or to help the reader develop the habits of mind they will need for success as a computer programmer.
This book is suitable for students taking an introductory computer science course or for readers interested in learning programming who have no prior programming experience. The book lays the groundwork for further study in computer science.
This book uses the Python 3 programming language to introduce programming concepts in a somewhat language-independent way. Turtle graphics and interesting computational problems introduce fundamental procedural programming constructs and patterns. The book includes chapters on input-processing-output programs, conditional and iterative structures, functions, recursion, file processing, lists and strings, dictionaries and sets, and contains an introduction to data analytics with NumPy, pandas, and matplotlib. An emphasis on understanding of program state, flow of control, debugging techniques, standards, communication, and Boolean logic are woven throughout the chapters.