Python

🐍 Intro to Python

This two-part workshop is an introduction to programming and plotting in Python for people with little or no previous programming experience.  It will cover use of interpreters (Python 3), visualization (matplotlib), data wrangling (pandas), notebooks (JupyterLab), and data platforms (Anaconda).

Please consult our workshops list for specific offerings.

In preparation for the two-part Intro to Python workshop, attendees are expected to install the software below on their laptop in advance of the first session.  Users should also download and unzip the workshop data set.  These will allow optimal use of the workshop time.  If you need assistance in advance, please ask for help!

Attendees should have a Mac, Windows, or Linux laptop, including sufficient battery or charger.  Please note that tablets and Chromebooks are not suitable for this workshop.  If you are unsure in advance, please ask for advice!

A variety of quick references, cheat sheets, resources, and texts are available regarding Python.

This workshop is based on the Software Carpentry's Plotting and Programming with Python curriculum.  Additional tutorials are available regarding Python.

💻 Tips and suggestions

• tips for installation

  • you should select "just for me" (and not "all users") when installing Anaconda Python (this simplifies the installation process)

  • 🍏 Mac users: you should select the "graphical installer" and you should note the architecture of your Mac as users of older Macs will want to use the Intel chip installer and users of newer M1 Macs will want to use the Apple silicon installer (you can consult this article to check if you are using an M1 Mac or not)

• tips for being ready for workshop

  • you should be able to launch Anaconda Navigator, start JupyterLab from Anaconda Navigator, and have JupyterLab open in your web browser

• remember to download, save, and unzip the workshop dataset

• please ask for help in advance of the workshop if you are unsure!