[Tutor] starting from scratch.

[Kalle Svensson]

Sez Steve Mallett:
> Q's
> 1) I know this list is for beginners, but for scratch beginners?

Absolutely!  The beginninger the better! <wink>

> 2) Will I benefit from starting with "Learning Python" from O'Reilly?

Hmmm...  That depends.
For the absolute beginner with computers, or one that's only used Windows to
run Word, it's a bit heavy, I think.  If you're not afraid to test stuff and
used to finding out some details for yourself, it should be good.
Disclaimer:  I've only read it once, and not in great detail.  I knew python
before anyway.

> Someone told me to start with learning shell scripting, but I wonder if 
> that's not a bias'd opinion.

Is there such a thing as an unbiased opinion?
Anyway, I suggest going with Python.  Shell scripting isn't as useful or
enjoyable, and might give you bad habits.  That's my (biased) opinion.

> 3) Should I start somewhere else & lead up to Python?

No, I think Python is a great beginners language.  Check out the thread
starting at http://mail.python.org/pipermail/tutor/2001-May/005905.html for
a few reasons.

Peace,
  Kalle
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