[Tutor] New to programming

[Kalle Svensson]

Sez Patrick Kirk:
> Hi all,

Hello!

> Without starting an advocacy thread, why is Python so well spoken of as a
> first language?  Obviously knowing what makes it good makes learning it even
> more useful...

Well, that's a good question!  Here are my opinions:

Python is a clean, well designed language.  Most of the time, there is one
obvious way to do something.  It encourages well structured and readable
code.

It's interpreted and dynamic, reducing the time needed to make a change or
try a new thing.  This is to make sure you don't get bored.

It has got a good, large, well-documented standard library.  This makes
it easy to develop more interesting applications from the start.

It also supports many different programming paradigms, which makes it easier
to learn another language after having learned Python.

Another thing which I consider quite important, is that the Python community
is friendly and (mostly) helpful.  Especially this list is very nice, but
even the major python list and #python on IRC have a good atmosphere.

When I'm at it:  Check out the Useless Python site
(http://www.lowerstandard.com/python/pythonsource.html).  It has quite a few
challenges and examples, gathered by Rob Andrews, a regular on this list.

Peace,
  Kalle
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