Python Crash Course

Name: Python Crash Course
Author: Eric Matthes

Eric Matthes

The best-selling Python book in the world, with over 1 million copies sold! A fast-paced, no-nonsense, updated guide to programming in Python.

30.5 score

#47 overall

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Score based on developer article recommendations — not sales data or reviews.

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🟢 Developer Verdict

A fast-paced, project-based introduction to Python programming, designed to quickly get beginners writing functional code.

Read this if

✓ You are completely new to programming and want to learn Python.
✓ You prefer learning through practical, hands-on coding projects.
✓ You need a rapid, practical start to build basic Python applications.

Skip this for now if

✗ You seek in-depth coverage of advanced Python concepts.
✗ You prefer a theoretical deep dive into computer science principles.
✗ You are already proficient with Python fundamentals.

Developer signal: Overwhelming Consensus · 100% 10 analyzed mentions PracticalFoundationalBeginner Friendly

🔄 Compare & Reading Path

Alternatives

Learn Python the Hard Way Choose this for a more hands-on, practical approach Beginner Learning Python Choose this for a more hands-on, practical approach Beginner Learn Python 3 the Hard Way Choose this for a more hands-on, practical approach Beginner

Read After

Python Cookbook Go deeper into Python after this Advanced Clean Code: A Handbook of Agile Software Craftsmanship Go deeper into Code-quality after this Intermediate

📊 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.

Top signals: PracticalFoundationalBeginner FriendlyComprehensive

💬 What Developers Say

"The Python Crash Course: A Hands-On, Project-Based Introduction to Programming, by Eric Matthes, is another awesome, hands-on book to learn Python"
— javinpaul · Top 5 Books to learn Python for Beginners - Best of Lot · Jan 8, 2020

"It's a fast-paced, thorough introduction to Python that will have you writing programs, solving problems, and making things that work in no time."
— javinpaul · Top 5 Books to learn Python for Beginners - Best of Lot · Jan 8, 2020

"A straightforward introduction to the core of Python programming and the perfect book for beginners."
— tdmoor · Essential Resources to Learn About Python · Feb 6, 2020

Based on 10 developer article mentions