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Beyond built-in Python

Python comes with many built-in functions, but its real power comes from external packages. These are pre-written code libraries that add new capabilities.

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What are packages really?

Packages are just Python files containing code - typically combinations of functions (which you’ve learned) and classes (coming later). When you import a package, you’re bringing that functionality into your project. Two types of packages:
  • Built-in: Come with Python installation (already in your environment)
  • External: Downloaded from the internet into your virtual environment folder

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Python’s ecosystem

Python has packages for everything:
  • Web scraping: Extract data from websites
  • Data analysis: Process spreadsheets and databases
  • AI/ML: Build intelligent applications
  • APIs: Connect to online services
  • Automation: Control your computer

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What you’ll learn

Import packages

Use external code

Work with APIs

Connect to services

Working with data

Process data efficiently

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Package examples

Here are packages you’ll likely use:
  • requests - Make web requests
  • pandas - Work with data tables
  • beautifulsoup4 - Parse HTML
  • openai - Use AI models
  • python-dotenv - Manage secrets
When you need to do something, search “Python package for [task]” and you’ll likely find options.

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Let’s begin!

Start by learning how to import and use packages.

Import packages

Add new capabilities