Book: Python Tutorial

Overview
Guido van Rossum's Python Tutorial (1995) presents a concise, approachable introduction to the Python programming language as it existed in the mid-1990s. It frames Python as a language designed for readability, rapid development, and straightforward scripting as well as more structured programming. The text moves quickly from simple interactive examples to complete small programs, giving learners both immediate gratification and a foundation for more advanced exploration.
The tutorial emphasizes practical skills: how to write, run, and debug Python code using the interpreter and basic tools included with the language distribution. Rather than dwelling on formal language theory, the narrative focuses on getting readers to produce working programs and to understand Python's conventions and idioms.

Structure and Style
The material is organized in a progressive, example-driven sequence that introduces concepts in a logical order. Early chapters cover the interactive interpreter, basic statements, and simple data types. Later sections build on that base to introduce compound data types, control flow, functions, modules, and file handling. Each concept is presented with short, concrete code samples followed by explanations of behavior and common pitfalls.
The writing style is clear and conversational, with an emphasis on readability and concise explanation. Explanations avoid heavy jargon and use hands-on examples to clarify subtle points, making the tutorial well suited to readers who learn best by seeing and modifying code.

Core Topics Covered
Fundamental topics include variables and basic data types such as numbers and strings, plus the core compound types of lists, tuples, and dictionaries that underpin much of Python programming. Control structures such as if statements, for and while loops, and the suite of comparison and logical operators receive thorough, practical treatment.
Functions are introduced as first-class building blocks for code organization, with coverage of parameter passing, return values, and scope. Modules and the import mechanism are used to demonstrate how to structure larger programs, reuse code, and access the standard library. The tutorial also addresses input and output, reading and writing files, and exception handling for robust programs.

Teaching Approach and Examples
The tutorial favors short examples that can be run immediately in the interactive interpreter, encouraging experimentation and rapid feedback. Code snippets are intentionally simple but realistic, illustrating typical tasks such as parsing text, manipulating lists, or writing small utility scripts. Explanatory text highlights both the mechanics of syntax and the rationale behind Pythonic choices, such as the language's indentation-based block structure and emphasis on readable code.
Exercises and suggested modifications are sprinkled throughout to prompt active learning. These small challenges push readers to apply concepts immediately rather than passively read, reinforcing understanding through practice.

Audience and Practical Use
Intended for newcomers to Python and programmers seeking a quick introduction to the language, the tutorial assumes minimal prior knowledge while still being useful to experienced developers who want to learn Python's idioms. It serves as a practical first manual for anyone installing the language and wanting to write useful scripts or small programs quickly.
Because the focus is on core language features and common tasks, the tutorial is especially valuable for those who need to use Python for scripting, automation, or as a stepping stone to larger applications and additional libraries.

Legacy and Influence
As an early, authoritative source written by Python's creator, the tutorial helped shape expectations about Python's readability and design philosophy. Its example-driven, pragmatic approach influenced later documentation and teaching materials and contributed to Python's reputation as an accessible language for both novices and professionals. The tutorial remains a historical touchstone that captures the core principles that continue to guide Python's evolution.