Real-World Python: A Hacker’s Guide to Solving Problems with Code

A project-based approach to learning Python programming for beginners. Intriguing projects teach you how to tackle challenging problems with code.

With its emphasis on project-based practice, Real World Python will take you from playing with syntax to writing complete programs in no time. You’ll conduct experiments, explore statistical concepts, and solve novel problems that have frustrated geniuses throughout history, like detecting distant exoplanets, as you continue to build your Python skills.

Chapters begin with a clearly defined project goal and a discussion of ways to attack the problem, followed by a mission designed to make you think like a programmer. You’ll direct a Coast Guard search-and-rescue effort, plot and execute a NASA flight to the moon, protect access to a secure lab using facial recognition, and more. Along the way you’ll learn how to:

• Use libraries like matplotlib, NumPy, Bokeh, pandas, Requests, Beautiful Soup, and turtle
• Work with Natural Language Processing and computer vision modules like NLTK and OpenCV
• Write a program to detect and track objects moving across a starfield
• Scrape speeches from the internet and autosummarize them
• Use the Mars Orbiter Laser Altimeter (MOLA) map to select spacecraft landing sites
• Survive a zombie apocalypse with the aid of data-plotting and visualization tools

The book’s programs are beginner-friendly, but as you progress you’ll learn more sophisticated techniques to help you grow your coding capabilities. Once your missions are accomplished, you’ll be ready to solve real-world problems with Python on your own.