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Editorial Team
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Asked: 2026-05-11T16:49:50+00:00

I’m a newbie to programming. I had 1 semester of computer science (we used

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I’m a newbie to programming. I had 1 semester of computer science (we used java). I got an A in the course and was able to do everything assigned, however I’m not sure I really understood it. I ignored the text and learned by looking at sample programs and then trial and error. I was ahead of the class except for two guys who came in knowing java or another OOP language.

I’d like to learn Python. I’m also going to build a second PC from extra parts I have and use linux. Basically, I want to enhance my knowledge of computers. Thats my motivation.

Now on learning python are there any good programming theory books that would be useful? Or should I read up on more on how computers operate on the lowest levels? I don’t think I know enough to ask the question I want.

I guess to make it simple, I am asking what should I know to make the most of learning python. This is not for a career. This is from a desire to know. I am no longer a computer science major (it also would not have any direct applications to my anticipated career.)

I’m not looking to learn in “30 days” or “1 week” or whatever. So, starting from a very basic level is fine with me.

Thanks in advance. I did a search and didn’t quite find what I was looking for.

UPDATE: Thanks for all the great advice. I found this site at work and couldn’t find it on my home computer, so I am just getting to read now.

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  1. Editorial Team

    My recommendation is always to start at the high level of abstraction. You don’t need to know how logic gates work and how you can use them to build a CPU — it’s cool stuff, but it’s cool stuff that makes a lot more sense once you’ve messed around at the higher levels. Python is therefore an excellent choice as a learning aid.

    How to Think Like A Computer Scientist: Learning With Python is available on the Internet and is an excellent introduction to the high-level concepts that make computers go. And it’s even Python-specific.

    If you’re looking to have your brain turned inside-out, SICP will do a good job of it. I don’t recommend it as a first text, though; it’s heavy going.

    Both of these books are high-level. They won’t teach you anything about the low-level details like memory structures or what a CPU actually does, but that’s something I would reserve for later anyway.

    D’A

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