Python is a high-level, interpreted, interactive, and object-oriented programming language created by Guido van Rossum and first released in 1991.
Since its creation, Python has become one of the most popular and widely used programming languages in many fields. From creating small scripts to areas like data science, web development, or artificial intelligence.
Python stands out for its simple and readable syntax, making it easy to learn and use. In fact, according to its creators, it is designed to be “understood by humans” (meaning it tries to facilitate writing and reading code).
Characteristics of Python
Python is an interpreted language. This means that the Python code we write is executed by a program that interprets it (the Python interpreter).
The interpreter reads our code and executes it line by line at runtime. In fact, at any time we can open the Python interpreter, type commands, and see them executed in real time.
However, it is normal for us to save our code in one (or several) text files. In Python, these files have the .py extension. Then we will launch the interpreter, which will read the lines from our file.
On the other hand, Python is an object-oriented language. Everything in Python is an object with its properties and methods. Object-oriented programming is a paradigm that seeks modular and structured programming, encapsulating functions and data into reusable objects.
Furthermore, Python is cross-platform, being compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux, among others. This means that a program written in Python can run on different operating systems without needing many (or any) changes.
Advantages of Python
The main advantage of Python is its strong commitment to simplicity. Python starts from a basic premise: “simple is better” (it seems obvious, but not all languages follow this philosophy).
That is, Python focuses on developer productivity and code readability. This follows a philosophy they have called “The Zen of Python,” which basically promotes simplicity and clarity when programming.
On the other hand, Python is a multi-purpose language (well, like almost all languages these days). This means that, although it is more used in certain fields, nothing prevents us from using it for any type of program or task.
Another great advantage of Python is its extensive standard library, which provides modules and functions to perform various tasks. This facilitates application development without having to reinvent the wheel.
Finally, the biggest advantage Python has (yes, it’s its greatest advantage) is the great popularity the language has acquired. This has generated a large community for it.
As a result, there is a large amount of resources, documentation, tutorials, and libraries available, facilitating learning and problem-solving.
If you have a need, it’s most likely that someone has already made a library to solve it in Python.
Where Python is Used
Python has great popularity, and as we said, it is multi-purpose. That is, it is used in a wide range of fields, and more every day.
For example, Python is excellent for automating repetitive tasks and creating scripts (for example, a script that renames files, deletes empty folders, things like that).
On the other hand, Python is widely used in data analysis, visualization, data processing, and machine learning. This is due, in large part, to the existence of mathematical libraries like Pandas, NumPy, Matplotlib, and Scikit-learn.
Python is also often the preferred choice for implementing prototype algorithms for artificial intelligence, machine learning, or computer vision. Again, thanks to specialized libraries like TensorFlow, Keras, and PyTorch.
Furthermore, Python also has its share of the web development “pie,” with frameworks like Django or Flask, which allow for easy creation of web applications.
Also in game development and interactive applications with libraries like PyGame or Pyglet. Even the Godot game engine uses GDScript, which is heavily based on Python.
Finally, it also has a place in embedded systems like Arduino and electronics, thanks to frameworks like MicroPython.
In short, today Python is used everywhere. Even many programs have adopted it (or plan to) as a scripting language, replacing alternatives like LISP or VBA.
