Website development is currently one of the most in-demand fields in the tech industry, as thousands of websites are created daily, many of which are written in the Python programming language. If you want to start a tech career, you should consider learning Python for website development today.
This article is your complete guide to launching a successful career as a Python website developer. You are going to learn what Python is, how it aids in website development, and how you can learn Python. It also contains details about the best learning paths to take if you want to become a Python website developer.
What Is Python?
Python is a general-purpose, object oriented programming language used for web development, data science, machine learning, and a host of other computation disciplines. It has been around since 1991 and is backed by the Python Software Foundation. It is an advanced programming language designed for writing clear and logical code.
Python is a popular language because it is one of the easiest programming languages to learn and Python programmers enjoy a wide range of career opportunities within the tech industry. Python is great for small and large-scale projects and is commonly used for rapid application development thanks to the built-in data structure.
What Is Python Used for in Website Development?
Python is used for coding, designing, developing, and debugging in website development. It is most commonly used for server-side website application development. This means it is used for the parts of the application that aren’t visible to active users but are necessary for optimal function and common tasks.
The server-side of a website is responsible for dynamic data processing which includes things like storing login details and enabling navigation across pages. Using a high-level Python web framework, a developer can create comprehensive websites for e-commerce. Some of the most popular frameworks are Django, bottle.py, Pyramid, Flask, CherryPy, and web2py.
There are many frameworks for Python and the one you choose should depend on what you are trying to achieve. For example, Flask is a microframework used for the foundations of websites. TurboGears is the go-to framework for data-driven web applications. Django is an industry-leading full-stack Python framework.
How Long Will It Take to Learn Python for Website Development?
It takes about five to ten weeks to learn Python for website development. However, it could take more or less time depending on your current level of programming experience. It’s safe to say that people with some form of experience are more likely to learn Python for website development faster than those with no experience.
Another factor that may influence the time required to learn website development with Python is where you learn. If you opt for a bootcamp or regular online course, you will most likely complete your training faster than someone who opts for a website development degree.
Why Should You Learn Python for Website Development?
You should learn Python for website development because it is one of the most versatile and popular programming languages in the world. Apart from writing code with Python, the frameworks, libraries, and other resources available for Python developers make website development quick and efficient.
Adaptability and Scalability
Python is as adaptable as it gets when it comes to website development and this explains its ever-rising demand. One factor that makes Python incredibly adaptable is the fact that it has thousands of libraries with reusable codes. This makes it ideal for object oriented programming and building scalable websites and complex applications for businesses.
Python has built-in data structures, glued scripting, and dynamic binding. Combined, these features promote scalability on Python websites. So, when startups use Python as their base code, they can easily expand, add new features, and make necessary updates without ruining everything.
Backend Development
Python is an ideal server-side scripting tool thanks to the clarity and reliability of its syntax. Programmers can read and understand Python almost as well as they can understand the English language. This speeds up the development process by allowing them to complete server-side scripting in record time.
In the United States, backend website developers earn an annual salary of $100,281, according to ZipRecruiter. By learning Python, you will be able to work on server-side technology for websites, web applications, and other software.
Smooth App Testing
Software testing is one of the most important steps during website development. Most programmers prefer to test as they work rather than wait until they finish before testing. With Python, testing is easy, fast, and efficient.
The efficiency in testing and scripting speed is primarily because of the existing Python libraries, pre-written code, easy-to-read syntax, and seamless integration with other technologies. Python programmers can use a development framework like Testify, DocTest, and PyTest for website software testing.
How Can I Learn Python for Website Development?
Whether you want to learn Python for website development, artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, or other popular tech subjects, bootcamps, massive open online courses (MOOCS), and online courses are great places to get educated.
You don’t need to be an experienced developer to begin learning Python. Below are some key details about online learning platforms and other options available to get an education in Python programming.
Coding Bootcamps
Some of the best coding bootcamps offer Python programming lessons, either as a stand-alone course or as part of a full program. The best option for you would be a bootcamp that specifically offers a Python website development program. For example, NuCamp offers a backend web development with Python bootcamp.
When you are choosing a Python bootcamp, make sure that you choose one that offers career services such as job interview prep and classes for soft skills in addition to technical training. This increases your chances of getting hired after graduating.
Online Courses
MOOCs offered by Udemy, Coursera, and Pluralsight offer the chance to learn Python more affordably than a bootcamp. Some of the courses on these online learning platforms are free while others cost a small fee. The one you pick should depend on your experience level. If you don’t have any coding experience, you should start with an introductory course.
Some great online courses to learn Python for website development are Python and Django Full Stack Web Developer Bootcamp by Udemy, Django 2.2 & Python by Udemy, and Full Stack Web Development with Python (WEB2PY) by Pluralsight.
Books
This option may not be as popular as bootcamps and MOOCs but it is still a great way to learn Python for developing websites. If you like to read and you’re taking the self-learning approach, reading a book on Python website development will help. These books are easily accessible online.
Some of the most popular books are Learn Web Development with Python: Get Hands-on with Python Programming and Django Web Development by Arun Ravindran and C. Hillar Gaston. Two other great options are Learn Python the Hard Way: A Very Simple Introduction to the Terrifyingly Beautiful World of Computers and Code by Book by Zed Shaw.
Top Python for Website Development Libraries
Using a Python library for your website development project will make the entire process as fast and as bug-free as possible. These libraries are a set of functions that allow people to program software without writing a fresh code for every single feature. It simplifies the entire process, significantly saving time and cost.
Below is a list of the top five Python libraries for website development.
- Apache Libcloud
- Pandas
- TensorFlow
- Matplotlib
- PyTorch
Apache Libcloud is used by Python developers to make software interact with cloud service providers efficiently. Pandas is the go-to library for data manipulation and analysis. TensorFlow is a collection of libraries used for machine learning and AI projects like an AI chatbot on a website.
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Matplotlib is used for interactive and animated visualization. Finally, PyTorch is a machine learning library used for prototyping during research and development. While most Python libraries are used for data science and machine learning, the ones listed above can be beneficial for website developers.
How to Learn Python for Website Development: A Step-by-Step Guide
It is true that Python is one of the easiest programming languages to learn. However, you need a clear plan of action to use as a guide on your journey to becoming a Python website developer. The step-by-step guide below will help you start your career in Python website development.
Get an Education
Whether you are just starting your career, trying to switch careers, or simply looking for a new skill, getting an education is the first step. Enroll in a program, pick a learning format, and start learning. If you want to teach yourself, you might select an online resource like Python courses on Udemy and start learning.
If you want more structure to help you learn, you could enroll in one of the best Python bootcamps. Bootcamp programs may cost more than online courses, but they allow you to interact with a community of developers, provide hands-on projects to give you experience completing complex tasks, and might even help you connect with potential employers.
Get Plenty of Practice
While bootcamps of MOOCs are great, doing some out-of-class work will help you master Python much faster. Dedicate a few minutes a day to master one aspect of Python. It could be an extension of the program you enrolled in or something entirely different.
You can create a calendar and outline to guide you through this personal learning process. If you learn about Python syntax and semantics today, you can read about pragmatic design and Python project tools tomorrow.
Master Website Development
You should learn about website development more generally, even if your aim is to specialize in Python. Find out the history of website development, how websites work, how to make money from website development, and other related knowledge relevant to the field.
If possible, consider learning the basics of other key programming languages like JavaScript or Java. Knowing the ins and outs of more than one powerful programming language helps with integration and also increases your options in the job market.
Build a Portfolio
With website development, or any type of coding, it is not enough to read and listen. You also need to practice. Practicing is the best way to ensure that the lessons are sinking in and is also a great way to build your professional portfolio. The portfolio should contain your best work and projects you’re most proud of.
You can also try building a commercial website to test your skills. If you do not trust yourself to score your work honestly, look for another Python developer and ask them what they think. You may also benefit from customer feedback when your website is live online.
Learn How to Ace Interviews
If you want to work as an employee in a top tech company, you might want to study salary negotiation and common interview questions. Most bootcamps offer guidance in these areas as part of their career services. This way, landing a job will be much easier.
If you teach yourself, you will want to learn as much as you can about Python interview questions and answers. This will help you stand out from the crowd of applicants, as tech jobs can be competitive.
Start Learning Python for Website Development Today
Python developers are currently in high demand and there is evidence to prove that this demand will continue to rise. Learning Python, specifically for website development, is a great career choice that will pave the way for several opportunities.
Python developers are among the top earners in web development and knowledge of Python can be used in other tech fields like data science and machine learning. So, pick a Python bootcamp or a course from an online learning platform and start coding in Python today.
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