How to Choose the Best Platform to Learn Python

Learning is a highly individualized endeavor, so what works best for you might be a little different from what works for others. The best platform to learn Python will depend on your goals, learning style, time available, budget, and similar factors. Regardless of how you go about learning Python, making the decision to do so can potentially boost your career by opening up new job opportunities as you expand your technical skill set. 

Explore some of your options and the potential opportunities you can pursue after learning this popular programming language. If you’re ready to start learning, consider enrolling in the Python for Everybody Specialization from the University of Michigan, where you’ll be introduced to fundamental programming concepts, including data structures, networked application program interfaces, and databases, using the Python programming language. 

What is the best platform to learn Python? 

You can learn Python in various ways: in person, online, via boot camps, through guided projects, or by teaching yourself how to use Python using tutorials. The option that’s best for you will likely depend on a few things, including your budget, the amount of time you want to take to learn Python, and your learning style. Even if you choose one mode of learning Python, you may find key differences between one educational provider and another.

Online or in-person Python courses

If you prefer a more traditional approach to learning, similar to your standard college course, you can find in-person Python-specific courses offered by local organizations. You might also pursue online courses, like those offered on Coursera, including IBM’s Python for Data Science, AI & Development course, or Google’s Crash Course on Python.

While Python courses like these share similarities—for example, they might take a month to a few months to complete, making them a shorter option than a degree program, but longer than some boot camps—they can also be quite different. An online course typically provides greater flexibility and the ability to learn at your own pace. In contrast, in-person learning often allows for immediate connection with instructors and classmates, which may result in a more active versus passive learning experience. It could also provide greater networking opportunities. 

Python boot camps

Boot camps provide a condensed, compact, intense amount of education in a short period, sometimes as short as just a few days, though others can last up to a few months. They are designed primarily for learners who want to quickly boost their career chances within a tech field. As such, boot camps can be a good place for you to obtain technical skills such as coding or Python. 

Boot camps are quick, often affordable compared to degrees, and beginner-friendly. Due to their condensed nature, however, they can be somewhat limited in terms of what you will learn.

Python tutorials or projects

Python tutorials and guided projects are ideal for those who learn by doing, as tutorials and projects essentially walk you through completing a Python-related task, rather than merely instructing you in how to use Python at a later time. 

Python offers its own tutorials, as do some tech companies like Google. You can also find Python projects on Coursera, such as the beginner-friendly, two-hour Python 101: Develop Your First Python Program Guided Project. 

Python games and community

Lastly, you might opt for more of a self-taught route by relying on the robust Python community and the resources it produces. You can also use tools like Codewars to test your growing Python knowledge through small coding exercises and challenges. 

How to decide the best platform to learn Python

Before deciding on any of the above options, you should consider your learning style, budget, time, and education and career goals.

If you like the idea of a multi-week or multi-month learning experience, structured around learning a specific skill such as Python programming, but are just deciding between in-person and online options, consider your individual learning style and needs.

Do you thrive on being able to ask questions and then get immediate answers? Do you enjoy team collaboration and group problem-solving? If so, an in-person course may suit you.

However, if you prefer a flexible course that you can complete from anywhere, on your own schedule, an online option may be more suitable. An online course is sometimes a good choice for those who value autonomous work and need flexibility around an existing career or a separate educational path.

Alternatively, if you’re after an accelerated pace toward a new or expanded role, you may prefer a Python boot camp over an in-person or online Python course. If you’re confident in your self-teaching abilities and want something other than a structured program, like an online course or boot camp, you can find a wealth of games, guides, community resources, and similar materials online to begin exploring Python at your own pace for free. 

Build your Python skills on Coursera

 Whether you want to develop a new skill such as Python, get comfortable with an in-demand technology, or advance your abilities, keep growing with a Coursera Plus subscription. You’ll get access to over 10,000 flexible courses. 

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