What is Python?

Python is one of the world's most popular programming languages. It is simple, readable, and used in web development, data science, AI, automation, and scripting. Created by Guido van Rossum in 1991, Python's clean syntax makes it ideal for beginners and experts alike.

15 min•By Priygop Team•Updated 2026

What is Python?

Python is a high-level, general-purpose programming language known for its clean, readable syntax that resembles natural English. It supports multiple programming paradigms — procedural, object-oriented, and functional. Python runs on all major platforms (Windows, macOS, Linux) and has a massive ecosystem of libraries and frameworks.

Diagram

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Everything in Python is an object — use type() to check

Why Learn Python?

Simple syntax — reads like English, easy for beginners
Versatile — web, data science, AI, automation, scripting, DevOps
Huge community — millions of developers worldwide
Rich ecosystem — thousands of free packages via pip
High demand — top-paying jobs across tech, finance, healthcare
Used by Google, Netflix, Instagram, NASA, SpaceX

Your First Python Program

# This is a Python comment — ignored by Python
print("Hello, World!")
print("Welcome to Python!")
print("I am learning to code!")

# Python can do math
print(10 + 5)    # 15
print(100 - 37)  # 63
print(6 * 7)     # 42

Try It Yourself: Hello World

Try It Yourself: Hello WorldPython

Python Editor

✓ ValidTab = 2 spaces

# print() displays output to the screen
print("Hello, World!")
print("My name is Python!")

# Print numbers
print(42)
print(3.14)

# Print calculations
print(10 + 5)
print(100 - 37)
print(6 * 7)

# Try changing the messages above and click Run!

Output

Click ▶ Run to see the result

Edit the code on the left, then click Run (Ctrl+Enter)

Python|14 lines|244 chars|✓ Valid syntax

UTF-8

Tip

Python is the #1 language for beginners because its syntax reads like English. Focus on understanding concepts first — speed comes with practice. Use python.org docs as your reference.

Common Mistake

Warning

Don't confuse Python 2 and Python 3. Always use Python 3 — Python 2 is officially dead since 2020. If tutorials show 'print "hello"' without parentheses, that's Python 2 syntax.

Practice Task

Note

Try these: (1) Write a print() statement with your name. (2) Print a math expression like 2**10. (3) Use print() with multiple arguments separated by commas.

Quick Quiz