Synopses & Reviews
Ready to learn Python programming? Are you new to programming with Python? Do you need a solid introduction to the fundamental concepts? You've found it in "Python Programming for the Absolute Beginner, Second Edition," the updated version of the successful "Python Programming for the Absolute Beginner." As part of the for the absolute beginner series developed by computer science instructors exclusively for Cengage Learning Course Technology PTR, this book will teach you the basics of Python programming through simple game creation. You can then take the skills you learn and use them for more practical Python programming applications and real-world programming scenarios. Better still, by the time you finish this book you will be able to apply the basic principles you've learned to the next programming language you tackle. Create simple, fun games while you learn to program with Python.
Synopsis
If you are new to programming with Python and are looking for a solid introduction, this is the book for you. Developed by computer science instructors, books in the "for the absolute beginner" series teach the principles of programming through simple game creation. You will acquire the skills that you need for practical Python programming applications and will learn how these skills can be put to use in real-world scenarios. Throughout the chapters, you will find code samples that illustrate concepts presented. At the end of each chapter, you will find a complete game that demonstrates the key ideas in the chapter, a summary of the chapter, and a set of challenges that tests your newfound knowledge. By the time you finish this book, you?ll be well versed in Python and be able to apply the basic programming principles you?ve learned to the next programming language you tackle.
About the Author
Mike Dawson has worked as a programmer and a computer game designer. He earned his bachelors degree in Computer Science from the University of Southern California and currently teaches game programming at UCLA Extension and The Digital Media Academy at Stanford. In addition to Python Programming for the Absolute Beginner, he is also the author of Beginning C++ Through Game Programming.
Table of Contents
1. Getting Started: The Game Over Program 2. Types, Variables, and Simple I/O: The Useless Trivia Program 3. Branching while Loops, and Program Planning: The Guess My Number Game 4. for Loops, String, and Tuples: The Word Jumble Game 5. Lists and Disclaimers: The Hangman Game 6. Functions: The Tic-Tac-Toe Game 7. Files and Exceptions: The Trivia Challenge Game 8. Software Objects: The Critter Caretaker Program 9. Object-Oriented Programming: The Blackjack Game 10. GUI Development: The Mad Lib Program 11. Graphics: The Pizza Panic Game 12. Sound, Animation, and Program Development: The Astrocrash Game Appendix A: livewires Reference