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What is programming?

Programming is simply giving instructions to a computer. Think of it like writing a recipe - you tell the computer exactly what to do, step by step. When you cook, you follow steps: “Heat oil, add onions, stir for 2 minutes.” Programming is the same, except you’re telling a computer what to do instead of cooking.

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Computers are literal

Here’s the key thing: computers do exactly what you tell them - nothing more, nothing less. They can’t guess what you mean. If you tell a friend “make coffee,” they know what to do. But a computer needs every detail:
  1. Get a cup
  2. Add coffee grounds
  3. Pour hot water
  4. Wait 3 minutes
  5. Add milk if desired

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Basic programming operations

All programming, regardless of language, boils down to a few basic operations: Store information 
age = 25
name = "Sarah"
Make decisions 
if it's raining:
    take umbrella
else:
    wear sunglasses
Repeat actions 
repeat 10 times:
    do pushup
Calculate things 
total = price + tax

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Your journey

Right now, this might feel abstract. That’s normal! As we move through Python basics, each concept will click into place. Programming is a skill like any other - it takes practice, but anyone can learn it.

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What’s next?

Now let’s dive into Python syntax - the specific rules for writing Python programs.

Python syntax

Learn Python’s rules