Introduction

Python is one of the most popular programming languages in the world, known for its simplicity, versatility, and powerful functionality. Many professionals, academics, entrepreneurs, and hobbyists use Python to develop web applications, automate tasks, create machine learning models, analyze data, build games, and much more. If you’re looking to enhance your skills, pursue a career in software engineering, or just explore your interests, learning Python may be an excellent choice for you. However, you may wonder, “How can I learn Python for free?” The good news is that there are numerous resources available online that can help you acquire Python expertise without spending a dime.

In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to learn Python for free. We’ve organized the content into six major sections: Online Courses, YouTube Channels, Books, Websites, Open-Source Contributions, and Community Resources. Each section will discuss a variety of resources that cater to different learning styles, objectives, and preferences. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, you’ll find something that suits your needs. Let’s get started!

7 Free Online Courses to Learn Python: A Beginner’s Guide

If you prefer structured learning, online courses could be your best bet. Fortunately, many online platforms offer Python courses for free, ranging from introductory to advanced levels. Here are seven of the most reputed online courses to learn Python for free, along with their main features, advantages, and disadvantages.

1. Codecademy

Codecademy is an online learning platform that offers a variety of coding courses, including Python. Its Python course is designed for beginners who have no experience in programming. The course has a set of interactive lessons that build upon each other, covering fundamental programming concepts, syntax, data structures, and algorithms. The lessons are self-paced and gamified, which means you’ll earn points and badges as you progress. Codecademy also offers a paid version of the course that includes additional content and features.

Pros:
– Interactive and engaging lessons
– Progress tracking and feedback
– Hands-on practice with real code
– Mobile app available

Cons:
– Limited coverage of advanced topics
– No certificate or accreditation
– Some content is behind a paywall

2. Coursera

Coursera is a massive open online course (MOOC) provider that partners with universities and organizations worldwide to offer high-quality courses. Its Python for Everybody course is one of the most popular online Python courses, developed by Dr. Charles Severance from the University of Michigan. The course consists of five modules that cover the basics of Python programming, web scraping, databases, data visualization, and data analysis. Each module has a mix of video lectures, quizzes, assignments, and peer-reviewed projects. Coursera offers a certificate upon completion of the course, for a fee.

Pros:
– Well-structured and comprehensive curriculum
– Expert-led lectures and guidance
– Community support and feedback
– Flexible deadlines and pacing

Cons:
– Requires a basic understanding of computer science
– Costs money to earn a certificate
– Some content may be too advanced for absolute beginners

3. edX

edX is another MOOC platform that offers Python courses from top universities and institutions, such as MIT, Harvard, and Microsoft. Its Introduction to Python for Data Science course, developed by Microsoft, teaches Python basics with a focus on data science applications. The course covers topics such as variables, data types, loops, functions, and statistics, using Jupyter Notebooks and Microsoft Azure services. The course is self-paced and can be audited for free or taken with a verified certificate for a fee.

Pros:
– Relevant and practical content for data science
– Access to industry-related tools and resources
– Support for multiple programming languages
– Can be used toward a Microsoft certification

Cons:
– Assumes prior knowledge of basic statistics
– May require familiarity with Microsoft tools and services
– Limited interaction with instructors and peers

4. Udacity

Udacity is a platform that offers online courses and credentials in collaboration with industry partners, such as Google, IBM, and Amazon. Its Intro to Computer Science course, taught by instructors from the Georgia Institute of Technology, is a Python-based course that aims to teach computational thinking and problem-solving skills. The course covers topics such as algorithms, data structures, logic, and object-oriented programming. The course is self-paced and offers personalized feedback and support from mentors. Udacity also offers a paid version of the course that includes additional content and features.

Pros:
– Emphasis on computational thinking and problem-solving
– Personalized feedback and mentoring
– Projects and quizzes that reinforce learning
– Can lead to a degree or certification

Cons:
– Requires a considerable time commitment
– Some content may be challenging for beginners
– Requires payment for some features and courses

5. MIT OpenCourseWare

MIT OpenCourseWare is an initiative that makes MIT course materials available online, for free. Its Introduction to Computer Science and Programming Using Python course is a beginner-friendly course that covers Python programming along with fundamental computer science topics. The course includes video lectures, assignments, exams, and code examples. The course materials are self-paced and can be used for self-study or as a supplement to a classroom course.

Pros:
– Access to prestigious course materials
– Comprehensive coverage of both Python and computer science
– Self-paced and flexible learning schedule
– Can be used for academic credit

Cons:
– No direct interaction with instructors or peers
– May require prior knowledge in math and logic
– No certification or accreditation

6. Google’s Python Class

Google’s Python Class is a series of free tutorials and video lectures that teach Python programming in a concise and practical manner. The class uses a “tech talk” style that focuses on solving programming problems using Python. The class includes topics such as strings, lists, sorting, and regular expressions. The class materials can be downloaded and used offline, making them ideal for people with limited internet access.

Pros:
– Concise and focused content
– Highly practical and applicable skills
– No registration or login required
– Can be used offline

Cons:
– Limited coverage of advanced topics
– No interaction with instructors or peers
– No certification or accreditation

7. Sololearn

Sololearn is a mobile app that offers bite-sized coding lessons and challenges for various programming languages, including Python. Its Python 3 Tutorial course is a fun and interactive way to learn Python basics on-the-go, using gamification techniques. The course includes topics such as syntax, variables, operators, and loops. The app also includes a code playground that allows you to write and test code in real-time.

Pros:
– Mobile and convenient learning experience
– Gamified and interactive content
– Multiple programming languages available
– Free and no ads

Cons:
– Limited coverage of advanced topics
– No certification or accreditation
– No direct interaction with instructors or peers

Conclusion

Online courses are a great way to learn Python for free, especially if you prefer a structured and guided learning experience. Whether you use Codecademy, Coursera, edX, Udacity, MIT OpenCourseWare, Google’s Python Class, or Sololearn, you’ll have access to quality content and resources that can help you master Python programming. Each platform has its advantages and disadvantages, so you should choose the one that suits your learning objectives and preferences the most. In the next section, we’ll explore another type of free learning resource: YouTube channels.

5 Best YouTube Channels for Learning Python for Free

If you’re a visual learner or prefer to learn from video tutorials, YouTube could be your go-to source for Python learning. YouTube has countless channels that offer high-quality Python content for free, ranging from beginner-friendly tutorials to advanced project-based courses. In this section, we’ll introduce you to five of the best Python channels on YouTube, along with their unique features, strengths, and weaknesses.

1. Corey Schafer

Corey Schafer is a popular YouTuber who creates programming videos on various topics, including Python, Django, Flask, and web development. His Python tutorials cover a wide range of topics, such as data types, operators, functions, modules, and advanced topics such as OOP, decorators, and iterators. Corey’s teaching style is clear, concise, and practical, with plenty of code examples and demonstrations. Corey’s channel is ideal for people who want to learn Python for web development or data analysis.

Pros:
– Comprehensive and in-depth coverage of Python topics
– Practical and hands-on approach
– High-quality production and clear explanations
– Engaging and friendly tone

Cons:
– Some videos may be too fast-paced for beginners
– Limited interaction with instructors and peers
– No certification or accreditation

2. Sentdex

Sentdex is a YouTuber who focuses on data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence, using Python as a programming language. His Python tutorials cover topics such as numpy, pandas, matplotlib, scikit-learn, and TensorFlow, as well as general Python concepts. Sentdex’s teaching style is engaging and humorous, with a focus on real-world applications and projects. Sentdex’s channel is ideal for people who want to learn Python for data science and machine learning.

Pros:
– Specialized and advanced coverage of Python topics
– Practical and project-based approach
– Clear and engaging explanations
– Active and supportive community

Cons:
– May require prior knowledge of programming and statistics
– Some videos may be too niche for general learners
– No certification or accreditation

3. Tech With Tim

Tech With Tim is a YouTube channel run by Tim Ruscica, a software developer and instructor who covers a wide range of programming languages and technologies, including Python. His Python tutorials cover topics such as basics, OOP, GUI, web scraping, and game development, using various frameworks and libraries. Tim’s teaching style is clear, concise, and interactive, with plenty of projects and examples. Tim’s channel is ideal for people who want to learn Python for various purposes and interests.

Pros:
– Diverse and creative coverage of Python topics
– Interactive and engaging teaching style
– Structured and organized curriculum
– Supportive and active community

Cons:
– Some videos may be too fast-paced or advanced for beginners
– Limited coverage of data science and machine learning
– No certification or accreditation

4. PyData

PyData is a YouTube channel that features videos and talks from PyData conferences worldwide, focusing on data science and analytics using Python. Its videos cover various topics, such as visualization, statistics, modeling, machine learning, and deep learning, presented by experts in the field. PyData’s videos are practical, informative, and up-to-date, providing insights and knowledge on the latest trends and developments in data science. PyData’s channel is ideal for people who want to keep up with the changing landscape of data science and Python.

Pros:
– Professional and expert-led talks and presentations
– Timely and relevant content
– Access to cutting-edge topics and technologies
– Archive of past conference talks

Cons:
– May be too advanced or specialized for beginners
– Large volume of videos to browse
– No certification or accreditation

5. Python Programmer

Python Programmer is a YouTube channel created by Bjorn, a developer and educator who teaches Python, Django, Flask, and web development. His Python tutorials cover various topics, such as basics, OOP, databases, automation, and web frameworks. Bjorn’s teaching style is clear, friendly, and concise, with a focus on practical examples and real-world projects. Bjorn’s channel is ideal for people who want to learn Python for web development and automation.

Pros:
– Practical and project-based learning experience
– Clear and concise explanations
– Wide range of Python topics covered
– Supportive and friendly community

Cons:
– Some videos may be too fast-paced or specific for beginners
– Limited coverage of advanced topics
– No certification or accreditation

Conclusion

YouTube channels are a great way to learn Python for free, especially if you prefer video-based learning or if you want to diversify your learning sources. Whether you follow Corey Schafer, Sentdex, Tech With Tim, PyData, or Python Programmer, you’ll have access to quality Python content that can enhance your skills and knowledge. Each channel has its strengths and weaknesses, so you should choose the ones that align with your interests and goals. In the next section, we’ll explore another type of free learning resource: books.

Top 3 Python Books Available for Free Download

If you prefer reading books or want a comprehensive Python reference, you can find various free e-books online that cover Python in-depth. These e-books are often authored by experts, educators, and organizations that share their knowledge and insights with the community. In this section, we’ll introduce you to three of the best Python e-books that you can download for free, along with their content, features, and limitations.

1. Python 3 Object-Oriented Programming

Python 3 Object-Oriented Programming, written by Dusty Phillips, is a comprehensive guide to object-oriented programming in Python 3. The book covers topics such as classes, inheritance, polymorphism, encapsulation, and design patterns, using practical examples and exercises. The book is ideal for people who want to master object-oriented programming concepts and apply them to Python.

Pros:
– Comprehensive and in-depth coverage of OOP in Python
– Practical and real-world examples
– Accessible and easy-to-follow writing style
– Relevant and up-to-date content

Cons:
– Assumes prior knowledge of Python basics
– May be too advanced for beginners
– No certification or accreditation

2. Dive Into Python 3

Dive Into Python 3, written by Mark Pilgrim, is a classic e-book that introduces Python 3 from scratch. The book covers Python basics, data structures, functions, modules, and libraries, using a clear and concise writing style. The book is ideal for people who want to learn Python in a self-paced and interactive way.

Pros:
– Comprehensive and beginner-friendly coverage of Python
– Accessible and easy-to-follow writing style
– Interactive and practical exercises
– Free and open-source

Cons:
– May be outdated or incomplete in some areas
– No certification or accreditation
– Limited coverage of advanced topics

3. Python Practice Book

Python Practice Book, written by Anand Chitipothu, is a free e-book that provides Python exercises and solutions for beginners and intermediate learners. The book covers topics such as variables, loops, functions, recursion, sorting, and searching, using straightforward and hands-on examples.