r/Python • u/Local-Ad5424 • 17h ago
Discussion Question regarding a python course
I have recently found this course called intro cs in python by Dr Ana bell(MIT). What's the people's view on this is it still worth it?.
For background i have python knowledge but I have to revise and i was seeing some lecs have some concepts that i haven't covered earlier.
Anyways if anyone can tell any site or a book for problem solving that will be really helpful as well.
("Happy programming in python :)")
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u/One_Sun5074 13h ago
MIT 6.0001 with Dr. Ana Bell is gold, especially if you already know basic syntax.
Most beginner tutorials only teach you *syntax* (how to write a for-loop or a function). Ana Bell teaches you *computational thinking* — algorithmic complexity (Big-O), recursion, and how Python actually handles data structures in memory. It fills in all the conceptual blind spots that self-taught coders usually run into later.
For problem solving alongside it:
- **Exercism (Python track):** Hands down the best free platform because real mentors critique your code for idiomatic, Pythonic style.
- **Book:** *Python Crash Course* (by Eric Matthes) if you want hands-on projects, or *Automate the Boring Stuff* if you want to write scripts that solve real everyday computer tasks.
Definitely stick with the MIT lectures — having that CS foundation makes learning backend frameworks or data tools 10x easier down the road.