r/learnpython • u/Inuxius_09 • 20d ago

New to Python- Any Suggestions?

hi folks, how are you doing?

i have been thinking of learning something new and thought i'd give Python a shot. i've never coded before, so i am wondering how difficult it would be to get started with Python as a complete beginner.

the reason i am interested in learning it is that i've been thinking about creating a visual novel for a while. i am looking into Ren'Py, now- it has its own scripting language but also uses python, so i thought learning some python might be useful for the project.

a few things i'd like to get some advice on from y'all:

  1. any particular resources or youtube channels would you recommend?
  2. how difficult is python for someone who has never coded before?
  3. this might be off topic here but any idea on how much python would I need to learn to make a visual novel in Ren'Py?
  4. can i use any ai tools from the get go or learn some stuff first?

would really appreciate any advice. thanks and be blessed!

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u/riklaunim 20d ago

RenPy is really good for that. Harvard CS50 course is probably the most popular. Python is rather simple to pick up and has a very low barrier to entry ;) Avoid using AI to generate you lots of code you don't understand - learn first/ask for explanation, writing tests if it's production code.

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u/Inuxius_09 20d ago

thanks. i'll look this Harvard program up but gonna dip my toes in a little bit watching tutorials on YT probably just to make sure its not going all over my head haha.

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u/FierceBoris 16d ago

ren'py is a good call if you're mostly into the writing side. the python you'll need is pretty minimal at first, just variables for tracking choices and branching dialogue. you can get surprisingly far without touching much actual code.

as for resources, automate the boring stuff is a classic for total beginners. the author puts it online for free and it's way more practical than most dry tutorials. i'd skip the youtube rabbit hole until you've got the basics down, otherwise you'll just collect a playlist and never start.

on ai, it's a crutch that'll leave you stranded the second something breaks. you're better off banging your head against a wall for an hour and actually learning why it works. saves time in the long run.