How to Become a Python Developer?

The next time you scroll up and down on your device, think of a programming language called Python.

It is this language that developers are scrambling to master. Globally, 48.24 % of all developers, that is half the number of developers, use Python. Most developers believe that it is a language that is greatly in demand. And one reason for this demand is that Python is easy to learn.

Understanding Python

Python is crucial for creating web applications on a server. It is a high-level, general-purpose, programming language. It is simple and easy to learn. It is the first programming language that most people are keen to learn – often even when they are still in school. 

Who are Python developers

People who work on software teams and build applications using the Python programming language are called Python developers. A Python developer is usually skilled in designing, developing and deploying computer applications using Python. Key skills that a Python developer possesses include a sound knowledge of libraries and frameworks. Additionally, the Python developer works on data collection and data analytics. 

When hiring a Python developer, a recruiter will look for the following: 

• Is the candidate qualified in Core Python?
• Does the candidate possess good debugging skills?
• Can the candidate handle frameworks like Django, Flask and React? 
• Does the candidate know how to work with libraries?
• Does the person have skills in machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI)?
• How skilled is the  candidate in deep learning?
• How proficient is the candidate in ORM – object-related mapping? 

What a Python developer really does

A Python developer has to work on a range of tasks on a software team. These include:

• Web designing.
• Scripting design.
• Developing web frameworks for new codes.
• Delivering services for automation deployment.
• Data examination.
• Scraping the internet. 

Since Python is a simple language, as developers gain experience and proficiency, they become more versatile with it.

Python has an edge over other back-end languages

• It is more dynamic than Java.
• Compared to Ruby, it is simple and technologically advanced.
• It works best in projects that involve machine learning.
• Compared to PHP, it is more readable and flexible. 
• Given its low cost of development, Python is preferred by startups.
• While C has been around for longer, Python has gained acceptance as a preferred programming language worldwide.

All these factors have contributed to creating a thriving community of Python developers across the globe. Resultantly, employees who are well-versed in Python get good salaries. 

Becoming a Python developer

Here are important insights that can help you along the way as you skill yourself to become a Python developer:

1. Build your presence on GitHub. Having an updated GitHub repository means that recruiters can look up your portfolio there instead of you having to send them zipped files of your work. It serves as your technical resume. 

2. Make sure the code you have written is readable. This will greatly help improve your chances of being recruited when recruiters look up your work on GitHub. A readable code helps make a case for you. Recruiters must be able to grasp it in one go. Writing readable code means paying attention to the following:

1. 1. Indentation.
   2. Line breaks.
   3. Maximum line length.
   4. Tabs and spaces.
   5. Source-file encoding.
   6. Strong quotes.
   7. Blank spaces.
   8. Trailing commas.
   9. Naming conventions.
   10. White spaces in expressions.

2. Ensure your documentation is proper. This essentially means that your GitHub repository must include a README file. This file must include critical information like an introduction to your project, what the project is all about, and the various frameworks and libraries used. Importantly, when the documentation is proper, code readability is improved greatly.

3. Understand the competencies of fellow developers. Hanging around on GitHub is useful for this reason. Look up the unique coding styles of other people. Specifically look at the coding styles of those who have a skill level that is close to yours.

4. Sharpen your Python skills. This can be done by reading more coding books on Python. Also, learn to work with various Python libraries like NumPy, matplotlib, Keras, SciPy, theano and TensorFlow.

5. Get well-versed with AI and machine learning. Focus on learning the various algorithms used in these two disciplines and quickly learn to work on projects using them.

6. Become a freelancer. As your grow your proficiency in Python, showcase it by offering your services. Develop a name for yourself as a freelance. This will also give an opportunity to apply all the knowledge that you have gained. As part of this initiative to grow your personal brand as a reliable and creative Python developer, write a blog and contribute on open-source platforms. 

Qualifications you will need

A Python developer must ideally possess a bachelor’s degree in computer science, in information management systems or in a related discipline. Apart from knowing Python itself, knowledge of frameworks like Django are important. Also knowledge of HTML and CSS will also be required. Additionally, relevant experience in coding and web development is preferred by employers. They value this experience even above academic qualifications.

Earning potential

Typically, Python developers are in great demand. Depending on the skills they possess and their work experience, Python developers could earn anywhere between Rs.2 lakh and Rs.10 lakh a year.  

People also ask:

1. What is the qualification for a Python developer?

A Python developer must ideally possess a bachelor’s degree in computer science, in information management systems or in a related discipline. Apart from knowing Python itself, knowledge of frameworks like Django are important.

2. How do I start a career in Python?

• Learn the basics of Python
• Build your skills by working on projects
• Network with other python developers
• Take a course or earn a certification
• Look for internship or volunteering opportunities.

3. Which degree is best for a Python developer?

Earning a degree in computer science is a great place to start if you’re considering becoming a Python developer.