Getting Started with Python and Google Colab

This week, I took my first steps into coding with Python, specifically using Google Colab. Before starting, I had almost no experience with programming, so the idea of writing code felt a little intimidating. However, after working through Chapter 1 of Data Toolkit: Python + Hands-On Math by Todd Kelsey, I realized that Python is much more beginner-friendly than I expected. The chapter introduced Python as a key tool for data science, explaining its readability, versatility, and strong community support.

One of the first things I did was run a simple “Hello World” program in a Google Colab notebook. It might seem small, but seeing my first line of code execute successfully was a rewarding moment that made coding feel more approachable. Beyond the basic syntax, I also learned how to create and use variables in Python. Variables are essentially storage containers for different types of data, like numbers or text. In Colab, I experimented by assigning values to variables and printing them out, following the book’s example of storing “apples” in a variable called bag. This hands-on exercise helped reinforce the idea that coding is just a structured way of giving instructions, similar to writing a recipe. The ability to store and manipulate data is a fundamental concept in programming, and it made me realize how powerful even simple lines of Python code can be. While I know I still have a long way to go, this first experience with Python gave me a solid foundation and made me excited to learn more about data science and automation.

One thing I really liked about using Google Colab is how easy it is to get started. Since it runs in a web browser, I didn’t have to install anything on my computer. The interface is straightforward, and I liked that I could run my code by simply pressing the play button. I also learned that Colab automatically saves my work to Google Drive, which is really convenient. Below, I’ve included a screenshot of my "Hello World" Google Colab notebook to document my first coding experience: