Learn to Code by Solving Problems is a practical introduction to programming using Python. It uses coding-competition challenges to teach you the mechanics of coding and how to think like a savvy programmer.
Computers are capable of solving almost any problem when given the right instructions. Thatβs where programming comes in. This beginnerβs book will have you writing Python programs right away. Youβll solve interesting problems drawn from real coding competitions and build your programming skills as you go.
Every chapter presents problems from coding challenge websites, where online judges test your solutions and provide targeted feedback. As you practice using core Python features, functions, and techniques, youβll develop a clear understanding of data structures, algorithms, and other programming basics. Bonus exercises invite you to explore new concepts on your own, and multiple-choice questions encourage you to think about how each piece of code works.
Youβll learn how to:
β’ Run Python code, work with strings, and use variables
β’ Write programs that make decisions
β’ Make code more efficient with while and for loops
β’ Use Python sets, lists, and dictionaries to organize, sort, and search data
β’ Design programs using functions and top-down design
β’ Create complete-search algorithms and use Big O notation to design more efficient code
By the end of the book, youβll not only be proficient in Python, but youβll also understand how to think through problems and tackle them with code. Programming languages come and go, but this book gives you the lasting foundation you need to start thinking like a programmer.
About the Author
Dr. Daniel Zingaro is an award-winning Associate Professor of Computer Science in the teaching stream at University of Toronto Mississauga, and is internationally recognized for his expertise in Active Learning. He is also the author of Algorithmic Thinking (No Starch Press, 2021).