Week 2: Python Basics: Variables, Data Types, and Operations

Learn the fundamental building blocks of Python programming with a focus on financial calculations.

Learning Objectives:

1. Variables in Python

What are variables? How to declare and assign values to variables in Python.

Read more about Variables in Python

📚 Can't access the link? Use Perplexity.ai and search for "Python variables basics tutorial"

2. Data Types in Python

Understanding different data types in Python: integers, floats, strings, booleans.

Read more about Data Types in Python

3. Basic Operations

Performing arithmetic and logical operations with variables in Python.

Read more about Basic Operations in Python

4. Input and Output in Python

How to take input from the user and display output in Python programs.

Read more about Input and Output in Python

Exercises:

  1. Create variables of different data types (int, float, string) to store financial data:
    • Stock price (float)
    • Number of shares (int)
    • Company ticker symbol (string)
  2. Write a program that calculates the total value of a stock position (price × number of shares)
  3. Create a simple interest calculator that takes principal, rate, and time as inputs
  4. Write a program that converts currency (e.g., USD to EUR) using a fixed exchange rate
  5. Create a program that calculates the future value of an investment after n years
  6. Write a program that calculates monthly loan payments given principal, interest rate, and years

💡 ChatGPT Learning Tips

Use these prompts to enhance your learning:

  1. "Explain Python data types using financial examples (stock prices, share counts, company names)"
  2. "Show me how to write a simple interest calculator in Python and explain each variable type"
  3. "What are the common mistakes when working with floating-point numbers in financial calculations?"
  4. "How do I format currency output in Python to show exactly 2 decimal places?"
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