Preparation

Reading material

The content of this week roughly corresponds to Think Python (TP), Chapter 1 Programming as a way of thinking.

The small differences between the book and the course are in the order of introducing concepts:

• We postpone a formal definition of types to next week.

• We use print statements already this week (the book introduces print statements in Chapter 2).

• We cover comments already this week (the book introduces comments in Chapter 2).

A note about week 1 reading material. In the first week of the course, you can complete the exercises without reading the provided reading material. However, starting from week 2, you are expected to come to class prepared by reading the assigned material and completing the preparation exercises beforehand.

Installing Python

To follow this course, you need to have Python installed on your computer. Python will also be used in other courses in the polytechnical foundation such as Mathematics and Physics. To assist you with the Python installation, DTU has a dedicated Python Support. They have prepared an installation guide which you should follow to install all the necessary packages and tools required for the first-year courses at DTU.

Preparation task. Install Python on your computer by following instructions on the Python Support. If you have problems with the installation, approach Python Support for help.

Prerequisites

This course is designed for students with no prior programming experience. However, we expect you to be comfortable with using computers and digital tools.

Preparation task. Check if you meet the prerequisites for this course by reading the Prerequisites page under the Additional content of the course material. There will be a brush-up course provided for students who need to refresh their digital skills.