1. Fundamentals of Python

Overview

This chapter reviews the basic Python data structures and tools that will be used in future discussions. These concepts will allow us to refresh our memory regarding Python's most fundamental and important features, while simultaneously preparing us for advanced topics in later chapters.

By the end of this chapter, you will be able to use control flow methods to design your Python programs and initialize common Python data structures, as well as manipulate their content. You will solidify your understanding of functions and recursion in Python algorithm design. You will also be able to facilitate debugging, testing, and version control for Python programs. Finally, in the activity at the end of this chapter, you will create a Sudoku solver.