How To Think Like a Computer Scientistn Learning With Python.pdf ~GeneralIssues~

How To Think Like a Computer Scientist, Learning With Python

How To Think Like a Computer Scientist
Learning with Python
2nd Edition (Using Python 2.x)
by Jeffrey Elkner, Allen B. Downey, and Chris Meyers
The goal of this book is to teach you to think like a computer scientist. This way
of thinking combines some of the best features of mathematics, engineering, and
natural science. Like mathematicians, computer scientists use formal languages
to denote ideas (specifically computations). Like engineers, they design things,
assembling components into systems and evaluating tradeoffs among alternatives.
Like scientists, they observe the behavior of complex systems, form hypotheses,
and test predictions.
The single most important skill for a computer scientist is problem solving.
Problem solving means the ability to formulate problems, think creatively about
solutions, and express a solution clearly and accurately. As it turns out, the
process of learning to program is an excellent opportunity to practice problemsolving
skills. That’s why this chapter is called, “The way of the program.”
On one level, you will be learning to program, a useful skill by itself. On another
level, you will use programming as a means to an end. As we go along, that end
will become clearer.
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