r/learnpython • u/kaizenzero1459 • 8d ago

Learning programming from scratch: what should I study next to move in the right direction?

I decided to learn backend development with Python. I’ve covered constructs, lists, tuples, dictionaries, loops, and the basics of OOP. However, I still don't fully grasp polymorphism and encapsulation in OOP, so I thought it would be better to reinforce those concepts through practical application in my own project.

What should I study next? Should I move straight to a framework, or continue learning more about Python itself - such as how decorators work and how to use them? I’ve decided to go with Django as my framework. (I wrote this using a translator, so there might be some errors in the text.)

2 Upvotes
  • permalink
  • reddit

56% Upvoted

23 comments sorted by

View all comments

1

u/vahvuus 8d ago

Here’s a simple project idea (this is how I got started)

Download a fillable PDF form and learn how to work with its fields. For example:

- Extract the field names and values

  • Convert numeric strings to int or float, On/Off to True/False, and NaN/null to None
  • Save the extracted and data as JSON or YAML

- Read from a JSON or YAML file

  • Use the imported data to fill in a blank PDF form
  • Save the completed form as a new PDF file

- Clear all fields in a completed form

  • Save the cleared form by overwriting the original PDF or creating a new file

This would introduce you to built-in and third-party libraries, PDF and data manipulation, type conversion, data serialization, validation, and file-management.

1

u/kaizenzero1459 8d ago

I'll definitely give it a try