Discovering the Python language

There are many different computer languages that exist in the world today. Python, R, SQL, Java, JavaScript, C++, C, and C# are just a few examples. Although each of these languages is different when it comes to their syntax and application, they can be divided into two general categories: low-level and high-level languages. Low-level languages – such as C and C++ – are computer languages operating at the machine level. They concern themselves with very specific tasks, such as the movement of bits from one location to another. On the other hand, high-level languages – such as R and Python – concern themselves with more abstract processes such as squaring numbers in a list. They completely disregard what is happening at the machine level.

Before we discuss Python in more detail, let's talk about the idea of compiling programs. Most programs – such as programs written in C++ and Java – require what is known...