Week 1 - Balt 4363 - Python/Google Colab

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Going into chapter one of Data Toolkit: Python + Hands-On Math, my only previous knowledge of Python was that it involved coding. I was eager to learn the basics of Python, because I know it is a powerful tool that can be applied to tasks ranging from web development to machine learning. The hands-on exercises with Google Colab allowed me to see Python in action. I was glad the first two exercises were simple inputs, but now it has me wanting to create more complicated Python code and test myself. 

Because I was interested in learning more about coding and Python specifically, I asked ChatGPT to create a cheat sheet for me that included built-in functions, keywords, and identifiers. As much as I want to code well right now, I know it is going to take time and practice before I can utilize Python's versatility. I was curious if people code and use Python as a side hustle, so again, I turned to ChatGPT to find that out. It turns out there are both short-term and long-term ways to make coding profitable. Short-term would entail freelance work, and there are platforms set up for that kind of thing. Another way would be to build simple apps like finance trackers or portfolio sites. As the course progresses, I would like to continue working on my Python skills and see the growth over these next 8 weeks.



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