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Documentation Index

Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://python.datalumina.com/llms.txt

Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

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.

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

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

What you’ll learn

Import packages

Use external code

Work with APIs

Connect to services

Working with data

Process data efficiently

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.

Let’s begin!

Start by learning how to import and use packages.

Import packages

Add new capabilities