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MIT 6.0001 Introduction to Comp Sci and Programming in Python

The document provides an introduction to computer science and programming in Python, explaining key concepts such as algorithms, machine architecture, and the syntax and semantics of programming languages. It covers the basics of Python programming, including scalar objects, printing, and variable assignments. The lecture emphasizes that computers execute only the instructions provided to them.

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andrewchan200920092009
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1 views

MIT 6.0001 Introduction to Comp Sci and Programming in Python

The document provides an introduction to computer science and programming in Python, explaining key concepts such as algorithms, machine architecture, and the syntax and semantics of programming languages. It covers the basics of Python programming, including scalar objects, printing, and variable assignments. The lecture emphasizes that computers execute only the instructions provided to them.

Uploaded by

andrewchan200920092009
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Study Notes: Introduction to Computer Science and Programming in Python

1. Introduction:

The lecture begins with an analogy of a recipe to explain the concept of algorithms.
Key components of a recipe:
Sequence of steps.
Flow of control (decisions and repetitions).
A way to stop.

2. Algorithms:

A recipe in scientific terms is an algorithm.


An algorithm is a set of instructions to achieve a particular task.

3. History of Computers:

Two types of historical computers:


Fixed Program Computers: Can only perform specific tasks. E.g., calculators.
Stored Program Computers: Can store and execute a sequence of instructions.

4. Basic Machine Architecture:

Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the heart of the computer.


Four main components:
Memory
Input/Output
Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Performs basic operations.
Control Unit: Contains the program counter.
​
5. Expressions and Primitives:

Alan Turing introduced six primitives: Move left, move right, read/write, scan, and do nothing.
Expressions combine primitives in a programming language.
In English, primitive constructs are words. In Python, they are data types like integers, floats,
booleans, etc.
​
6. Syntax and Semantics:

Syntax refers to the structure of the language.


Semantics refers to the meaning of the language.
In programming, a set of instructions has only one meaning, but it might not be the intended
meaning by the programmer.
​
7. Python Programming:

Python programs are sequences of definitions and commands.


Everything in Python is an object.
Objects have types, which determine the operations that can be performed on them.

8. Scalar Objects in Python:

Scalar objects are indivisible.


Types of scalar objects: Integers, floats, booleans, and none type.
Use the type() function to determine the type of an object.

9. Printing in Python:

Use the print() function to display values.


The shell provides immediate feedback, but for more complex programs, use the editor.

10. Variables and Assignments:

Variables store values for later use.


Use the = sign for assignments.
Variables can be rebound to new values.
The value of a variable doesn't change unless explicitly changed.

11. Conclusion:

The lecture concludes with a reminder that computers only execute the instructions given to
them.

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