<Excuses> Due to typical work priorities and the fact that I’m still settling into a new position, I didn’t make as much progress as I had hoped last week.  I’m almost certain there was minimal procrastination. </Excuses>

I have to admit, I wish I would have started learning Python a few years back.  The language is very intuitive and the way it’s structured just seems to mesh with the way I think (so far.)

I ran through most of the learnpython.org sections.  I like the way the tutorials flow and the code runner at the bottom is a nice feature.

There were a few times when the code runner didn’t work.  I would hit the run button and not get anything back, no errors no output at all.  If you see that problem try doing a shift+refresh in your browser (kind of a soft cache clear) and if that doesn’t work, hard clearing your cache should.  Once I had to close and re-open my browser.

Usually when I write code and hit something I don’t know/remember, like most people, I google the answer.  So I tend to do the same thing when running tutorials rather than going back and re-reading.  I try to learn something the same way I know I’m going to use it.  I’m a firm believer in “You play like you practice.” This is also helpful in finding tools you can use later.  For example tutorialspoint.com is now in my bookmarks.

Next up is getting my build environment setup.  I’ve installed Oracle Database 11g Express Edition to get started and for most of the quick things.  When I get up to the more advanced features,  I will be running Oracle Database 12c both on VirtualBox and Oracle Cloud.

I’m still trying to pick an editor/IDE.  I don’t plan to spend much time covering IDE features unless I come across something extra good or bad.  I’ll try a couple and settle down quickly.

I plan to just jump right into writing a simple application backed by a database and see how that goes.  I will try to post my code to give everyone a good laugh.