Whether you’re an advanced polyglot programmer or are just starting to learn how to code: there are many reasons why you should add Python to your list of things to learn in 2022.
Python is one of the most popular programming languages of the year – and it has been for a few consecutive years. It’s commonly used within web development and software engineering and by some top companies worldwide, including Google.
This article lists the top 10 benefits of learning this highly versatile and in-demand language.
1. Ease
In our experience with thousands of students, we’ve picked up that Python – taught in our Immersive, Software Engineering, and Data Science bootcamps – is one of the easiest languages to learn. But, don’t just take it from us. Software Engineering Stack Exchange, a Q&A site for coders, indicates that learning Python is an ideal first step for newbie developers.
What makes Python so accessible is that it reads similarly to English, which eliminates a lot of syntax-learning stress for coding beginners. Python also inhabits easy-to-grasp commands, and when you have the basics down, you can focus on application development.
There are many other programming languages for beginners who wish to learn to code, but Python is considered one of the most accessible.
2. Popularity
The TIOBE index is a trusted indicator of the popularity of various programming languages. The index determines the popularity of a language by analysing various factors, including
- Number of skilled engineers in the language,
- Courses offered in the language, and
- Third-party vendors using the language.
According to the TIOBE index, Python was awarded the title of “programming language of the year” because it gained the most points compared to other languages.
Today, Python is one of the best coding languages to learn for career growth.
3. One-stop shop
Python is a multi-use programming language. It’s so versatile that coding beginners can create a diverse and impressive portfolio using Python alone.
There’s a Python framework for most things, including web apps and data analysis. In fact, many apps you may use on a daily basis were built with Python, including Pinterest and Instagram.
There are also multiple open-source libraries and modules, as well as excellent online coding bootcamps for Python, which makes Python exceptionally accessible.
4. High salaries
According to Daxx, the average Python developer salary in the US is $108,598, which makes them the best-paid software engineers. How’s that for an incentive?
Average Python Developer salaries compared to other languages:
5. You’re interested in data science
If you’re interested in entering the lucrative field of data science, you should learn Python. Why is Python used so widely in data science? One important reason is that powerful statistical and numerical packages exist in Python for data analysis (such as PyBrain, NumPy, and MySQL).
Anyone comfortable with the Python programming language can use it as a tool to organise, process, and visualise data. And, with Data Science fast becoming one of the most rewarding careers in the tech industry, learning Python can fortify your career prospects for the future.
6. Machine Learning
You’ve almost definitely heard of Machine Learning (ML). But, to remind you of the basics, ML combines programming and statistics to build algorithms that allow computers to learn tasks they haven’t explicitly been programmed to learn.
Python modules like Scikit-learn, Tensorflow, and Theano support ML so that you can do cool things like spam detection and fingerprint identification.
Our future is heading towards a dependency on ML. And with the increase in popularity and demand comes an influx of employment opportunities within the sector. Learning a programming language like Python can secure your role in this bright and rewarding industry.
7. It’s powerful
Here are some of the incredible things you can do with Python:
- Automate the boring stuff
- Build web applications and websites from scratch
- Take advantage of micro frameworks like Flask and Bottle
- Develop GUI (Graphical User Interface) applications
- Do scientific and numeric computing
- Automate your browser to do social media posts at specific times
- Make robotics possible
- Bring your dreams to life (at least in some cases)
8. IoT
Python is one of the top four languages for building IoT, or Internet of Things, solutions.
IoT is really about connecting things to other things via the internet – think smartwatches and security systems.
Since our society is driving towards an automated future, understanding how IoT works is quickly becoming one of the most highly sought-after skills in tech.
9. Large community
When you’re learning a new language, a thriving online community is a genuine advantage to help you out when you get stuck. The Python community has a massive online resource at Python.org. You can receive free weekly emails, download various resources, or chat via IRC (Internet Relay Chat).
10. Demand
Python appears to be the fastest-growing language, particularly in high-income countries such as the US, UK, Germany, and Canada.
In 2022, its demand is only increasing without any expectation of slowing down.
From excellent salaries and ongoing demand to the versatility of this language, Python is undoubtedly one of the most powerful programming languages to learn in 2022 and beyond.
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If you’re keen to learn Python online, HyperionDev’s Data Science and Software Engineering bootcamps are a popular choice. See why for yourself by signing up for our trial, or apply for a bootcamp and upskill in tech today.
Editor’s note: This post was originally published on 12 February 2019 and has been updated on 16 September 2022.
