What Learning Python Taught Me in 2 Days

I started learning Python this week—not for the first time, but the first time it’s really sticking.

I’m coming at this with a background in linguistics and writing tutoring, and I wanted a path toward work that makes sense for how I think. So I’m starting with simple things like variables, math, and strings.

Here’s what I’ve learned so far.

🧠 3 Things That Clicked

  • You can store values in variables just like labeling things in language.
  • Combining strings and numbers takes a little thought, but str() makes it work.
  • Writing and running little scripts is fast—small wins build trust in the process.

🤯 What Surprised Me

It was more straightforward this time around than when I first tried this in 2021. I found it easy to see the pieces and make easy modifications. I enjoyed the iterative process.

🍎 A Tiny Program I Made

Here’s a little fruit calculator I built to practice math and string handling:

apples = 4
price_per_apple = 0.75
total_cost = apples * price_per_apple

print("You bought", apples, "apples.")
print("Total cost is $" + str(total_cost))

💬 Why I’m Writing This

I’ve stopped and started learning Python before, but this time I’m doing it differently—by writing what I learn, as I go. It helps me process it and keeps me moving forward.

If you’re new to coding, I hope this encourages you to try, and maybe to write about it too. Your voice and way of seeing things matter.

Written by Jaganath, a linguist and writing tutor learning Python to build a more flexible life. I write about what I learn to stay grounded and open doors.