Beginning Python

• This tutorial offers readers a thorough introduction to programming in Python 2.4, the portable, interpreted, object-oriented programming language that combines power with clear syntax
• Beginning programmers will quickly learn to develop robust, reliable, and reusable Python applications for Web development, scientific applications, and system tasks for users or administrators
• Discusses the basics of installing Python as well as the new features of Python release 2.4, which make it easier for users to create scientific and Web applications
• Features examples of various operating systems throughout the book, including Linux, Mac OS X/BSD, and Windows XP

Table of Contents:

Acknowledgments.

Introduction.

Chapter 1: Programming Basics and Strings.

Chapter 2: Numbers and Operators.

Chapter 3: Variables—Names for Values.

Chapter 4: Making Decisions.

Chapter 5: Functions.

Chapter 6: Classes and Objects.

Chapter 7: Organizing Programs.

Chapter 8: Files and Directories.

Chapter 9: Other Features of the Language.

Chapter 10: Building a Module.

Chapter 11: Text Processing.

Chapter 12: Testing.

Chapter 13: Writing a GUI with Python.

Chapter 14: Accessing Databases.

Chapter 15: Using Python for XML.

Chapter 16: Network Programming.

Chapter 17: Extension Programming with C.

Chapter 18: Writing Shareware and Commercial Programs.

Chapter 19: Numerical Programming.

Chapter 20: Python in the Enterprise.

Chapter 21: Web Applications and Web Services.

Chapter 22: Integrating Java with Python.

Appendix A: Answers to Exercises.

Appendix B: Online Resources.

Appendix C: What’s New in Python 2.4.

Glossary.

Index.