Where to Learn Python in 2026: Tools, Installation, and Your First REST API

Where to Learn Python in 2026: Tools, Installation, and Your First REST API

Python remains one of the most in-demand programming languages in 2026, especially for web development, automation, and Artificial Intelligence. If you are starting today, knowing where to learn Python, which tools to install, and how to build a real project is essential.

This guide walks you through the best learning resources, required software, and a simple REST API integration using Python.

Where to Learn Python in 2026

There are many platforms to learn Python, but the best ones focus on hands-on practice and real-world projects.

Free Learning Resources

  • Official Python Documentation – Clear and beginner-friendly tutorials
  • freeCodeCamp – Full Python courses with projects
  • Codecademy (Free Tier) – Interactive Python lessons
  • YouTube – Channels focused on Python basics and automation

Paid Learning Platforms

  • Udemy – Structured Python courses with lifetime access
  • Coursera – University-backed Python programs
  • Pluralsight – Python paths for developers

The key to learning Python efficiently is combining theory with practical projects.

What Software You Need to Install

Before writing your first Python program, you need a proper development environment.

1. Install Python

  • Download Python from the official website
  • Choose Python 3.x (latest stable version)
  • Enable "Add Python to PATH" during installation

2. Code Editor or IDE

  • Visual Studio Code (VS Code) – Lightweight and popular
  • PyCharm – Powerful IDE for Python developers

3. Package Manager

Python includes pip, which allows you to install external libraries easily.

How Python Code Is Run (No Compilation Needed)

Python is an interpreted language. This means:

  • No manual compilation step
  • Code is executed line by line
  • Faster development and testing

You can run Python code using:

  • The terminal or command prompt
  • Your IDE or code editor

Basic Example: Python REST API Integration

REST APIs are everywhere — from weather apps to AI services. Let’s look at a simple and practical Python example.

This example fetches data from a public REST API.

Step 1: Install the Requests Library

pip install requests

Step 2: Python Code Example

import requests

url = "https://api.publicapis.org/entries"

response = requests.get(url)

if response.status_code == 200:
    data = response.json()
    print("Total APIs available:", data["count"])
else:
    print("Failed to fetch data")

This script sends a GET request to a REST API and processes the JSON response.

Why This Matters for Real Projects

Understanding REST API integration allows you to:

  • Connect Python to external services
  • Build web and mobile backends
  • Consume AI and cloud APIs
  • Automate workflows

This skill is essential for modern Python developers.

Next Steps After Learning the Basics

  • Build small automation scripts
  • Create a simple REST API using Flask or FastAPI
  • Connect Python with AI APIs
  • Practice daily with real use cases

Conclusion

Learning Python in 2026 is easier than ever. With the right tools, learning platforms, and hands-on practice, you can quickly move from beginner to building real-world applications.

Start small, stay consistent, and focus on practical projects — that’s how Python skills truly grow.

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