Learn Python the Hard Way
Zed Shaw
Master Python and become a programmer - even if you never thought you could. This breakthrough book and CD can help practically anyone get started in programming. Zed A.
Score based on developer article recommendations — not sales data or reviews.
🟢 Developer Verdict
A practical, hands-on guide to learning Python from scratch, emphasizing repetition and active coding for beginners.
Read this if
- ✓ You are completely new to programming and Python.
- ✓ You learn best through active coding exercises and repetition.
- ✓ You want a structured, disciplined approach to build core Python skills.
Skip this for now if
- ✗ You already have a solid grasp of Python fundamentals.
- ✗ You prefer conceptual overviews or quick reference guides.
- ✗ You seek advanced topics or specific Python library deep dives.
🔄 Compare & Reading Path
Alternatives
Read After
📊 Why Developers Recommend
It provides a structured learning path for the language.
Cited by 12 different developers, each bringing their own experience and perspective.
Valued for its practical approach — concepts connect directly to real-world engineering decisions and daily work.
💬 What Developers Say
"If I never need to learn another language, I'll probably look for a Hard Way book."
— alli · What Happened When I Learned Java and Python at the Same Time · Aug 14, 2019
"7. Learn Python the Hard Way by Zed Shaw (21.1% recommended)"
— daolf · The 25 most recommended Python books of all-time. · Mar 4, 2020
"Here are some of the beginner-friendly Python resources that were recommended to me."
— karaluton · Beginner Python Resources Recommended by the Tech Community · Jul 12, 2019
Based on 12 developer article mentions
👤 Who Should Read This
Best for
- • Developers who want to write better code
Explore Similar Books
More books in similar categories — browse to discover your next read.
Automate the Boring Stuff with Python
Al Sweigart
View →
Learning Python
Mark Lutz
View →
Learn Python 3 The Hard Way
Zed A. Shaw
View →
Head First Python
Paul Barry
View →
Problem Solving with Algorithms and Data Structures Using Python
Bradley N. Miller, David L. Ranum
View →
Zed Shaw
Mentioned in 13 articles · #51 overall
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Recommended in 13 Articles
Beginner Python Resources Recommended by the Tech Community
How to become a Certified Python Developer in 2025
What Happened When I Learned Java and Python at the Same Time
Resources for learning Python in 2020
The 25 most recommended Python books of all-time.
Essential Books That Every Programmer Should Read—Lists by Andy Hunt, Eric Freeman, and Cory Althoff
Score Trend
Last 90 Days
Articles
1
vs prev 90d
-1
All Time
Unique authors
12
Total mentions
13