There are hundreds of programming languages in use in the IT and service industry right now. Some of them are mainstream, general purpose languages while others are more application-specific and proprietary in many cases. The process of selecting a specific programming language for your projects can sometimes be a hectic task.
But, there is one language that can do it all.
Designed by Guido van Rossum in 1990, Python, is an interpreted high-level programming language that can be used in almost any kinds of application. In fact, in more ways than one, this amazing programming language is more flexible than disruptive Java.
Let’s now look at a few reasons why an aspiring IT professional should start their journey in the software industry with Python.
Python has a Gentle Learning Curve
Unlike most other programming languages being used in the industry, Python is extremely simple to learn and easy to understand. It uses English-like terms as keywords and functions which makes it simple for even an amateur programmer to understand.
The major reasons for its simplicity include:
- Python is a free and open-source software
- It is a high-level, interpreted language
- It has a huge and active community
An example of the simplicity of Python’s syntaxes can be seen below:
Python is Highly Portable and Extensible
Cross-platform and cross-language operations using Python are seamless because of its portability and extensibility. All major platforms in the industry including Windows, Mac, PlayStation, Linux etc support platform today.
Another huge benefit of using Python for programming or any other application is its extensibility. This feature allows you to integrate non-Python components into your projects. These could include assets from Java, .NET, C, C++ and many others. Even libraries from these programming languages can be imported into a Python project.
Python has Numerous Applications
Python is one of a handful of programming languages that can be used in almost any kind of application, project or operation. These include:
- Programming of applications and software
- Scripting for automation and other processes
- Data science
- Artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms
- Web development
- Data and big data analytics
- Software and application testing
- Graphics designing and processing, and a lot more
All these applications are possible because of the large number of libraries and frameworks it supports. For example, for web development, developers can use the Django framework. Similarly, AI and deep learning can be achieved by using Tensorflow. Because of these huge number of applications, Python is arguably the most popular programming language being used in the industry right now.
Python has a Buzzing Community
As Python is an open-source project, it has a very active community. This community houses individuals ranging from students and amateur developers to data scientists and veteran coders. Just like any other community, this allows professionals working with Python to easily clarify their queries over the forums, socialize, connect with mentors, and a whole lot more.
There are even conferences and seminars conducted by Python which promote continuous learning and allow professionals to understand the ins and outs of Python.
Industry Demand and Hefty Paycheck
There are a lot of opportunities for professionals with Python in their resume. According to ITJobsWatch, Python job roles account for almost ten percent of all permanent IT jobs and almost eight percent of all contract-based jobs. One reason for this is the huge number of applications Python can be used for. The second major reason is Python’s industry adoption. Most major companies are moving their programming and other projects to Python because of its ease of use and the several advantages it brings in tow.
In fact, according to Indeed.com, the average salary of a Data Scientist in Python is $130,463 per year.
These were five of the major reasons that make Python an ideal language for both newbie and experienced programmers. As we’ve discussed earlier, it is quite easy to learn and understand Python, but a little guidance is always helpful when it comes to complex systems like Data Science using Python. If you are considering learning Python to get into your dream career, why wait? Master Python now and get into the role you’ve always wanted.
