Table of Contents
You now know enough Python to build small, real programs. This chapter is about putting everything together into mini projects.
Each project:
- Uses basic concepts you already know: variables, input/output, conditions, loops, functions, lists, files, etc.
- Starts simple, then suggests possible improvements.
- Can be typed into a single
.pyfile and run from your terminal or IDE.
You do not need to build all of them at once. Choose one, get it working, then add improvements step by step.
The projects:
- Number guessing game
- Simple calculator
- To‑do list
- Password generator
- Quiz application
- Small web or data project (tiny “first taste” ideas)
Use this chapter as a recipe book and practice guide, not a reference on syntax.
General Mini‑Project Workflow
When building any small project, use this basic workflow:
- Describe the program in one sentence
Example: “The program picks a random number and I try to guess it.”
- Write down the steps in plain language
For example:
- Choose a random number between 1 and 100
- Ask the user to guess
- Tell them if their guess is too high or too low
- Repeat until they get it right
- Translate steps into code
Use:
- Variables to store data
input()andprint()for interactionif/elsefor decisionswhile/forfor repetition- Functions to organize your code
- Start with the simplest version that can work
Don’t add scoring, colors, files, or fancy formatting at the start.
First: “Does it run and do the basic job?”
- Test, fix, and then improve
- Try unexpected inputs.
- Look at error messages.
- Add new features one at a time.