Python Development Track
Python is one of the most popular programming languages in the world, and one of the easiest to start with. Companies use it for web applications, automation, data work and AI tools, so it's a good first language for anyone who wants to work in tech.
This track follows the full Python Development curriculum. You'll start with the basics: variables, loops, conditionals and functions, the building blocks you'll use in every Python program. You'll use them to build small command line programs, like a number guessing game.
Next, you'll learn to work with data. You'll use lists, dictionaries and other Python data types to clean up messy data and organize it. Then you'll learn object-oriented programming (OOP), where you design your own classes to model how a program behaves.
After that, you'll connect your code to databases. You'll read and write CSV files, store and query records with SQLAlchemy, and build a web application with a database behind it. Along the way, you'll practice testing your code, working with APIs and deploying your projects.
Finally, you'll learn to use AI tools like a working developer does. You'll prompt an AI coding assistant, debug the code it writes and improve it, and you'll learn when to trust its output and when to question it.
By the end, you'll be able to plan and build complete Python applications on your own, from simple scripts to web apps that use a database.
Start your journey as a Python developer with this Track!
Ready to start learning?
Treehouse offers a 7 day free trial for new students. Get access to 1000s of hours of content. Learn to code, land your dream job.
Start Your Free Trial
-
Course
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
Python Basics
Learn the building blocks of the wonderful general purpose programming language Python.
-
1 minInstruction
How to Install Python
If youβd like to become a Python developer, installing Python onto your computer is one of the first steps. So far, you may have been working in an online Python editor, such as Treehouse Workspaces. In these workshops, we'll talk about why itβs beneficial to install Python. We'll also walk you through how to do so step by step....(continue reading)
Viewed -
7 minInstruction
Different Types of String Formatting
Here are some examples of the different ways that you can format a string. ...(continue reading)
Viewed -
8 minPractice
Practice Input and Output in Python
You've got the ability to get information from the user, input, and show them some results: output. Let's put your skills to work!
Viewed -
8 minInstruction
Using the as Keyword with Exceptions
An explanation of when to use the as keyword and how it works with catching exceptions....(continue reading)
Viewed -
6 minPractice
Practice Comparisons in Python
A quick review of data types, making comparisons, and using if and elif statements in Python.
Viewed -
Practice
- 1
Practice Creating and Using Functions in Python
Practice your function skills
-
Course
- 1
- 2
- 3
Introducing Lists
Lists are a powerful data type that allows you to store multiple ordered values in a single container. You are gonna love them.
-
1 minInstruction
The Random Library
Play around with Python's random library....(continue reading)
Viewed -
5 minPractice
Practice Creating and Indexing Lists
Let's practice creating lists and printing their contents.
Viewed -
3 minPractice
Practice Python While Loops
While you are learning about loops, take a moment to practice using while loops.
Viewed -
2 minInstruction
How to Battle Imposter Syndrome
Recognize that everyone has doubts about their abilities, but this common feeling can be overcome by understanding that you'll never know everything, and studying, practice and building cool technology will help you become a better, more confident developer....(continue reading)
Viewed -
28 minWorkshop
Plan Ahead with Pseudocode
Learn how to plan your programming projects before you open a text editor so you can discover logic errors before you start to share your ideas with your team.
Viewed -
120 minInstruction
Project 1 - The Number Guessing Game
Build a console number guessing game that prompts a player to choose a number between a specified range of numbers....(continue reading)
Viewed -
Course
- 1
Introducing Tuples
Learn about a Python data structure that's similar to lists but with one key difference!
-
Course
- 1
- 2
- 3
Functions, Packing, and Unpacking
Learn the ins and outs of Python functions, how to send and receive values to functions, and all about Python packing and unpacking.
-
Course
- 1
- 2
Python Sequences
Discover several types of Python sequences, many ways of sequence iterations, and all of the common sequence operations.
-
Course
- 1
- 2
Introducing Dictionaries
Another useful Python data structure is the dictionary. Learn how to write one and use one in your day-to-day Python code.
-
95 minWorkshop
Python Sets
Dive into the basics of Python Sets! A set is an unordered collection of unique elements without duplicates. Elements are identified by membership rather than position. This workshop will introduce you to how to create and manipulate sets as well as how to perform common set operations.
Viewed -
13 minPractice
Practice Cleaning Data
Practice accessing data and cleaning it for use in other functions or programs.
Viewed -
17 minWorkshop
Dunder Main
In this workshop, weβll talk about using a recommended Python best practice, dunder main to control the execution of our code.
Viewed -
4 minInstruction
Build a Learning Mindset
...(continue reading)
Viewed -
Course
- 1
- 2
Write Better Python
We've learned the ins and outs of Python. We're comfortable making all sorts of data types, writing functions, and creating classes. But now we need to look at how our Python code should be formatted so it matches the standard. We'll also look at how to get our code to give us help() and how we can use logging and pdb to help us keep track of what's going on inside the code.
-
7 minInstruction
Methods and Functions vs Keywords
This is an instruction guide for learning the difference between Python Methods, Functions, and Keywords....(continue reading)
Viewed -
43 minWorkshop
Python Comprehensions
This Workshop introduces students to a convenient way of working with iterables with Python. Here, youβll learn how to skip conditional looping and create new sequences straight from existing sequences, such as lists, dictionaries, and sets. Take your Python skills to a whole new level by learning Comprehensions!
Viewed -
6 hoursInstruction
Project 2 - Basketball Stats Tool
Build a console-based basketball team statistics tool to help you divide up a group of players into teams....(continue reading)
Viewed -
10 minInstruction
Learn Like an Expert
...(continue reading)
Viewed -
Course
- 1
Technical Interview Prep: Python Basics
Test your basic Python knowledge with a few code challenges. These challenges are similar to those you might encounter in a technical interview.
-
Course
- 1
- 2
- 3
Basic Object-Oriented Python
Learn the powerful object-oriented method of designing and laying out code.
-
1 minInstruction
Practice OOP
Practice basic object-oriented Python concepts to improve and solidify your skills....(continue reading)
Viewed -
Course
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
Python Dates and Times
As a Python developer, you will inevitably come across the need to use dates and times in your projects. This course will teach you how to use Python to work with dates and times. You will learn how to manipulate and format dates, calculate time differences, and explore the built-in datetime module. By the end of this course, you will have a solid understanding of how to handle dates and times in Python for a variety of applications. Throughout this course, we'll work together to build a simple app that will utilize this new concept and solidify your understanding.
-
56 minWorkshop
Structuring Your Code
Improve your code structure by applying narrative flow, iterative coding, KISS, and DRY methods.
Viewed -
16 hoursInstruction
Project 3 - Phrase Hunters
Create a word guessing game with Python and object-oriented programming....(continue reading)
Viewed -
14 minWorkshop
Python File I/O
You're likely to find that, sooner or later, you're going to need to read and write data to and from files. Python makes that easy so let me show you how!
Viewed -
14 minWorkshop
CSV and JSON in Python
CSV and JSON files are two very common formats for storing and retrieving data. Both have great support in the Python language. Let's see how to take advantage of each of these file types.
Viewed -
Course
- 1
- 2
- 3
Introduction to the Terminal
Apps for ordinary users use GUIs you control with a mouse or touchscreen. But developers know the most powerful way to interact with computers is by using text in the terminal. This course will set you on the path to terminal mastery!
-
Course
- 1
- 2
- 3
Introduction to Git
Git is a version control system - it helps you manage the different versions of your project files, and helps keep your work safe. This course will show you how Git works, and how to upload your projects to GitHub.
-
18 minWorkshop
Python Virtual Environments
If you're building apps with Python, you'll most likely be using third-party libraries and therefore need to use a virtual environment. This workshop will explain what Python virtual environments are. Then, you'll learn to use the venv tool to work with virtual environments, and how to install packages specific to your project. Finally, you'll learn how to replicate your virtual environments with others, such as fellow students, clients, or your development team. You will finish the workshop with a solid understanding of how to use virtual environments to maintain project dependencies and avoid conflicts with other Python projects.
Viewed -
Course
- 1
- 2
- 3
SQL Basics
In SQL Basics, weβll take a look at what databases are and how you can retrieve information from them. Databases can store massive amounts of information to be retrieved at a later date. Databases act as the memory for dynamic web sites or mobile apps.
-
Course
- 1
- 2
SQLAlchemy Basics
Creating a SQL database including model creation and CRUD using SQLAlchemy.
-
10 hoursInstruction
Project 4 - Store Inventory with SQLAlchemy
Build a console application that loads an existing store's inventory data from a CSV file into a SQLite database....(continue reading)
Viewed -
Course
- 1
- 2
- 3
Introduction to HTML and CSS
Get started creating web pages with HTML and CSS, the basic building blocks of web development. HTML, or HyperText Markup Language, is a standard set of tags you will use to tell the web browser how the content of your web pages and applications are structured. Use CSS, or Cascading Style Sheets, to select HTML tags and tell the browser what your content should look like. Whether you are coding for fun or planning to start a career in web development, learning HTML and CSS is a great place to start.
-
1 minInstruction
Learn More about HTTP
Expand your knowledge on the HTTP protocol....(continue reading)
Viewed -
1 minInstruction
Creating Forms
HTML Forms allow users to submit information to a website or application. ...(continue reading)
Viewed -
Course
- 1
- 2
Accessibility For Web Developers
Accessibility is a process that specifically considers the needs of people with disabilities. In this course, youβll learn about the standards in place to guide developers in creating experiences that are accessible to all users as well as tools and techniques to ensure your projects are up to those standards.
-
Course
- 1
- 2
Flask with SQLAlchemy Basics
Learn how to use the popular Python framework for creating websites and web applications, Flask. Then upgrade your website with a database connection using SQLAlchemy.
-
11 hoursInstruction
Project 5 - Portfolio with SQLAlchemy
Create a web application using HTML, CSS, and Flask, a popular framework for Python web development....(continue reading)
Viewed -
Course
- 1
Introducing Large Language Models
Large Language Models like ChatGPT are rapidly transforming natural language processing and shaping the future of technology. In this microcourse, learn more about this fascinating type of machine learning model specifically trained to understand and generate natural language text. This microcourse was written with the help of ChatGPT. The video was produced using Synthesia, an AI video creation platform.
-
2 minWorkshop
What Is AI? What Is ChatGPT?
In this video, we explore the fascinating world of AI and introduce ChatGPT, a language model designed to understand and respond to human language. Join Dustin as he dives into the basics of artificial intelligence and learn how ChatGPT is transforming the way we interact with technology.
Viewed -
8 minWorkshop
ChatGPT for Beginners
Are you curious about ChatGPT, the advanced language model that can engage in conversation? In this beginner-friendly video, we introduce you to the fascinating world of ChatGPT. Whether you're a developer, a language enthusiast, or just someone intrigued by AI, this video is the perfect starting point. If you've ever wondered how to interact with ChatGPT and harness its power, we've got you covered. You'll learn how to formulate questions, handle responses, and create engaging conversations with this cutting-edge technology.
Viewed -
14 minWorkshop
Debugging with ChatGPT
Join me in this exciting video as we harness the power of ChatGPT, the AI coding assistant, to debug our code. Discover how AI can revolutionize your debugging process and help you squash those pesky bugs in record time! Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting out, this video showcases the potential of AI-driven debugging.
Viewed -
29 minWorkshop
No-Code Prompt Engineering
Explore prompt engineering for no code development by enhancing your AI coding skills in this interactive workshop. Learn to craft clear, powerful prompts that enable AI tools to work smarter and faster, transforming your no code development process. Whether you're new to AI or already coding, you'll discover actionable strategies to streamline your workflow, solve challenges more efficiently, and achieve superior results from every prompt. Join us for a hands-on experience that will elevate your AI coding game and empower your no code projects.
Viewed -
2 minInstruction
Explore Popular AI Tools for Developers
Explore different AI tools that can assist your coding journey, whether through conversational help or automated code support....(continue reading)
Viewed -
4 minWorkshop
Meet Cursor and Experience AI-Driven Coding
This workshop explores Cursor, an AI-powered code editor designed to make coding more efficient and intuitive. Youβll learn how it helps with code suggestions, completions, error detection, and even running terminal commandsβall within your workflow. Itβs a practical session for developers looking to write cleaner code with less friction.
Viewed -
5 minWorkshop
Create Apps Faster with Windsurf
In this workshop, Christian walks through Windsurf, an AI-powered coding tool built with Codeium. Itβs a look at how AI can help automate parts of the development process and make building a bit smoother. Whether youβre experienced or just curious about where coding is headed, this gives you a real glimpse into how tools like Windsurf are starting to shape the future of software development.
Viewed -
18 minWorkshop
Introduction to GitHub Copilot
This workshop explores the capabilities of GitHub Copilot, a powerful coding tool. It demonstrates how Copilot assists developers in various scenarios, such as code completion, debugging, and documentation. Furthermore, students will learn how to use Copilot to enhance their coding productivity and efficiency.
Viewed -
16 hoursInstruction
Project 6 - Phrase Hunters (AI-Assisted Rebuild)
Use an AI coding assistant to rebuild Phrase Hunter with Python and object-oriented programming....(continue reading)
Viewed -
60 minExam
Python Final Exam
The final exam for the Python Development Techdegree Versions 14+.
-
Track Completion
This track includes:
- Python Basics 3 hours
- How to Install Python 1 min
- Different Types of String Formatting 7 min
- Practice Input and Output in Python 8 min
- Using the as Keyword with Exceptions 8 min
- Practice Comparisons in Python 6 min
- Practice Creating and Using Functions in Python 12 min
- Introducing Lists 105 min
- The Random Library 1 min
- Practice Creating and Indexing Lists 5 min
- Practice Python While Loops 3 min
- How to Battle Imposter Syndrome 2 min
- Plan Ahead with Pseudocode 28 min
- Project 1 - The Number Guessing Game 120 min
- Introducing Tuples 13 min
- Functions, Packing, and Unpacking 65 min
- Python Sequences 65 min
- Introducing Dictionaries 36 min
- Python Sets 95 min
- Practice Cleaning Data 13 min
- Dunder Main 17 min
- Build a Learning Mindset 4 min
- Write Better Python 70 min
- Methods and Functions vs Keywords 7 min
- Python Comprehensions 43 min
- Project 2 - Basketball Stats Tool 6 hours
- Learn Like an Expert 10 min
- Technical Interview Prep: Python Basics 30 min
- Basic Object-Oriented Python 2 hours
- Practice OOP 1 min
- Python Dates and Times 2 hours
- Structuring Your Code 56 min
- Project 3 - Phrase Hunters 16 hours
- Python File I/O 14 min
- CSV and JSON in Python 14 min
- Introduction to the Terminal 112 min
- Introduction to Git 3 hours
- Python Virtual Environments 18 min
- SQL Basics 2 hours
- SQLAlchemy Basics 3 hours
- Project 4 - Store Inventory with SQLAlchemy 10 hours
- Introduction to HTML and CSS 2 hours
- Learn More about HTTP 1 min
- Creating Forms 1 min
- Accessibility For Web Developers 91 min
- Flask with SQLAlchemy Basics 2 hours
- Project 5 - Portfolio with SQLAlchemy 11 hours
- Introducing Large Language Models 20 min
- What Is AI? What Is ChatGPT? 2 min
- ChatGPT for Beginners 8 min
- Debugging with ChatGPT 14 min
- No-Code Prompt Engineering 29 min
- Explore Popular AI Tools for Developers 2 min
- Meet Cursor and Experience AI-Driven Coding 4 min
- Create Apps Faster with Windsurf 5 min
- Introduction to GitHub Copilot 18 min
- Project 6 - Phrase Hunters (AI-Assisted Rebuild) 16 hours
- Python Final Exam 60 min