Python Fundamentals: Variables, Data Types, Functions, Loops, and Control Flow

Python Fundamentals

In this article, we will discuss Python fundamentals, specifically covering variables, data types, functions, loops, and control flow.

Variables

In Python, variables serve as storage containers for storing data. Variables have dynamic typing, meaning the data type of a variable changes according to its current value. Python does not require explicit type declaration. Here's an example:

x = 5
print(x)

Output: 5

Data Types

Python supports four primary data types: integers, floating-point numbers, strings, and boolean values.

Integers

Integers are whole numbers without decimal points, such as 2, 3, etc.

Floating-point Numbers

Floating-point numbers represent real numbers with a decimal point, such as 3.14 or -2.5.

Strings

Strings are sequences of characters, enclosed in single or double quotes. Examples include "hello" or 'world'.

Boolean Values

Boolean values represent either True or False, indicating the truth value of a condition.

Functions

Functions in Python are self-contained, executable pieces of code that perform specific tasks. To define a function, you use the def keyword followed by the function name, parameters (optional), and the function code. Here's an example:

def greet(name):
    print("Hello, " + name)

greet('John')

Output: "Hello, John"

Loops

Loops are used to execute a block of code repeatedly. Python has two types of loops: for and while. For loops iterate over a range or sequence of numbers, while while loops repeat a block of code until a certain condition is met.

Examples

Here's an example using a for loop:

for i in range(5):
    print(i)

Output: 0 1 2 3 4

And here's an example using a while loop:

x = 0
while x < 5:
    print(x)
    x += 1

Output: 0 1 2 3 4

Control Flow

Control flow statements allow you to control the execution path based on conditions. Python supports if, elif, and else statements.

if x > 0:
    print('x is positive')
elif x < 0:
    print('x is negative')
else:
    print('x is zero')

In summary, Python fundamentals include variables, data types, functions, loops, and control flow statements. Understanding these concepts will provide a strong foundation for further learning in this versatile programming language.