Have you ever heard of Python, Javascript or C++? Why is it important for one to know and what can they be used for? When looking for jobs, in which roles would this be important for?
Both are programming languages that a coder would use. It is a tool used to communicate between humans and computers. On a basic level, a computer's basic language is made up of ones and zeros, otherwise known as binary. There are low-level and high-level programming languages. Both are used to write instructions for computers to follow.
A low-level programming language is closer to machine language i.e. binary. A high-level programming language is closer to human language. For the latter, terminology that we recognise is used. You will recognise words like 'run' and 'request'.
So what kind of programming language level is python and what use cases are there where it is used?
What is Python?
Python — also known as CPython — is a high-level programming language that is used for general purposes. It is very versatile and highly interpretable, making it a great first language to learn. It is the fastest-growing and now preferred programming language. It is, therefore, no surprise that it is used in machine learning and data science around the world.
Where is python used and how can it be put into practice?
Examples of Python
Instagram uses python to install the business logic it uses to cater to millions of users via code. Instagram's philosophy is to "do the simple things first." As a result, Instagram decided to build its web framework "Django" with Python. Why? Because it is simple, practical, and can help scale to meet its dynamic user base.
Spotify
Python is used by the Spotify application to provide data insights. Through data analysis, Spotify is able to cater to your tastes. These contribute towards playlists such as your 'Discover Weekly' and smart Radio channels. It is also used for backend services.
Uber
The ridesharing service uses Python as its primary language. Smooth communication and transactions between drivers and riders are facilitated by machine learning. Powerful algorithms are created to understand complex data that make transportation smooth. It is also used to help scale growth.
Netflix
In the same way Spotify uses Python, Netflix does the same. Actionable insights provide personalised recommendations to viewers. Shows and movies of interest will be shown to you from past data that explains your choices. Python is used to re-train algorithms to improve the accuracy of their predictions.
Sims
Video games also use Python to allow gamers to have more control and freedom. For the Sims 4, it allows gamers to customise their building and design. Python is used to create a robust platform that offers plenty of scalabilities.
UI Design
Just as how developers have been using Python in gaming, the same applies to Graphic User Interfaces (GUI). It can be used to create special effects. It can also be used to create user-friendly interfaces for apps or websites.
Blockchain
Python is also used in blockchain. How? Developers can use this to code blockchain without having to write too much code. Python guarantees stability and reliability. It is also versatile and speedy for when growing data is added to the blockchain any time.
Fintech
Used in quantitative finance, Python can process large financial data sets. It helps with data visualisations and manipulation to come up with statistical calculations. This includes things like risk assessment. Thus, large finance corporations use a Python Fintech platform to train analysts. Python is also used for digital wallets that are now booming, due to its offering. It can provide secure APIs, and payment gateway integrations, alongside scalability.
Conclusion
Python has many vast uses across complex algorithms and data manipulation. Without it, you will be hard-pressed to find other programming languages that can do the same. Python is at the forefront of data science and machine learning. Find out other ways in which Python can be with data specifically. Or learn about different programming languages through computer science courses.
