How to Think Like a Computer Scientist
Allen Downey
overview
Python is an excellent way to get started in programming, and this clear, concise guide walks you through Python a step at a time—beginning with basic programming concepts before moving on to functions, data structures, and object-oriented design. This revised third edition reflects the growing role of large language models (LLMs) in programming and includes exercises on effective LLM prompts, testing code, and debugging skills.
contents
1. Programming as a Way of Thinking
2. Variables and Statements
3. Functions
4. Functions and Interfaces
5. Conditionals and Recursion
6. Return Values
7. Iteration and Search
8. Strings and Regular Expressions
9. Lists
10. Dictionaries
11. Tuples
12. Text Analysis and Generation
13. Files and Databases
14. Classes and Functions
15. Classes and Methods
16. Classes and Objects
17. Inheritance
18. Python Extras
19. Final Thoughts
