Quick Learning Python
Learn one of the most popular programming languages in 10 minutes or less with our simple, hands-on introduction suitable for complete beginners as well as those looking to refresh their skills.
Python is one of the world’s most widely used programming languages, valued by beginners and experienced programmers alike for its versatility, ease of learning and large ecosystem.
Our Quick Learning Python resource contains two tutorials, designed to help you get started quickly and confidently with Python programming.
The 5-minute tutorial offers a short overview of Python fundamentals, including data types, operators, and control structures. The 10-minute tutorial builds on this foundation, introducing arrays, user-defined functions, and Python’s class hierarchy.
Contents
Each tutorial is available as a Jupyter Notebook (.ipynb) file:
- Py5min.ipynb – 5-minute tutorial
- Py10min.ipynb – 10-minute tutorial
- FunctionGlossary.ipynb – glossary of useful functions, including examples from common modules such as math, numpy, and matplotlib
- company_sales_data.csv – sample dataset used in FunctionGlossary.ipynb
Getting started
Option 1: Open the Notebooks in Binder (recommended)
Binder allows you to open and run the notebooks directly in your web browser, meaning there is no installation or setup required. This is the quickest and easiest way to get started.
- Open the the notebooks in Binder in your browser
- Wait while Binder builds the environment (this may take a minute or two)
- Once it’s ready, the notebooks will open in an interactive Jupyter environment
- Select Py5min.ipynb or Py10min.ipynb to begin
Opening the Py5min.ipynb notebook in the interactive Jupyter environment using Binder
If the Binder link isn’t working, you can launch it manually:
- Visit Binder
- In the field labelled “GitHub repository name or URL”, paste the following address: https://github.com/olaiya/PythonQuick
- Click Launch. Binder will create the environment automatically
Option 2: Download the Notebooks from GitHub and Open Locally
If you prefer to work on your own computer or already use Jupyter Notebook, you can download the tutorial files directly from the GitHub repository.
- Go to the PythonQuick GitHub repository
- Download the repository as a ZIP file or clone it using Git
- Open the files (Py5min.ipynb, Py10min.ipynb, or FunctionGlossary.ipynb) using Jupyter Notebook or JupyterLab
If Jupyter is not yet installed on your computer, installation instructions and downloads can be found here
What next?
Once you’ve successfully opened the notebooks in your chosen environment, it’s time to get started! Work through the exercises in order, and take your time exploring how Python works.
Ready for the next challenge?
Try our Introduction to Python Masterclass for a more detailed, hands-on exploration of Python that builds confidence and practical coding skills.
