Introduction to Programming with Python

• Uwe Schmitt
• Scientific IT Services of ETH
• uwe.schmitt@id.ethz.ch

About the course

• This is a slow introduction
• Might be to slow if you programmed before
• Speed / talent varies

• More focus on basic concepts than comprehensive Python introduction
• Individual working on the script

Homework

• Weekly homework (2 to 5 hours)
• Please submit homework, even failures and incomplete solutions
• Submit your homework until Wednesday 6 pm

Certificates

• I issue certificates
• At least 80% presence required
• .. can be compensated by submitting homework
• Certificate can be converted to two credit points

Organizational issues

• Submit your homework until Wednesday 6 pm
• Tell me if you cancel
• Script at https://siscourses.ethz.ch/python_dbiol/
• I'll send you emails
• Did you get my email(s) ?

Learning to programm has two aspects:

• Learn the vocabulary of the language (Syntax)
• Learn to solve a specific problem with this vocabulary ("Think like a programmer")

How to learn to programm:

1. Learn the vocabulary
2. Exercise and repeat
3. Exercise and repeat
4. Appreciate mistakes
5. Expect frustration

Recommendations

• Read slowly, read multiple times
• Do the homework !
• Submit your homework !
• Type, don't copy / paste !
• Don't be afraid to ask !
• Talk to your neighbours !