Automating Real-World Tasks with Python

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/automating-real-world-tasks-python

Introduction

### Course Review: Automating Real-World Tasks with Python If you've been searching for a comprehensive course that effectively combines Python programming with practical applications, look no further than "Automating Real-World Tasks with Python" on Coursera. This course serves as a culmination of previously acquired skills while delving deep into essential Python modules, web interactions, and automation techniques that are increasingly crucial in today’s tech landscape. #### Course Overview The course is immersive and hands-on, guiding learners through a series of real-world scenarios where they will employ multiple skills simultaneously. It’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to solidify their Python knowledge while integrating practical applications that can be implemented in various professional settings. #### Syllabus Breakdown 1. **Manipulating Images** This module introduces learners to distributed systems and discusses the importance of both built-in and external libraries with a focus on APIs. The use of the Python Image Library (PIL) is highlighted, where you'll learn to manipulate images effectively. The hands-on lab where you will scale and convert images using PIL is particularly rewarding, reinforcing the knowledge with practical application. 2. **Interacting with Web Services** Here, you'll dive into the world of web applications, services, and APIs. Understanding RESTful architecture and learning how to use the Python Requests Library are essential skills for modern developers. The concept of data serialization in Flask, paired with an introduction to Django, will expand your skill set significantly. The lab that involves processing text files with Python dictionaries and uploading them to a web service is a great way to grasp these concepts deeply. 3. **Automatic Output Generation** In this module, you'll discover essential logging and exception handling techniques, and learn to automate emails using the Python email library. The highlight is generating PDFs with tables and graphics, culminating in a lab where you create a PDF and send it via email. This module is especially practical, as it combines multiple aspects of Python into a single project. 4. **Putting It All Together** This module is the final project of the course, where all prior knowledge is applied to solve a real-world problem. You’ll write a script to automate catalog updates, generate a PDF report, and email it—all while checking the health status of your system. This comprehensive task ensures that you are job-ready and fully understand how to apply what you've learned in practical scenarios. 5. **Career Resources** This module is a thoughtful addition, focusing on job readiness skills, remote work etiquette, and addressing mental health issues like imposter syndrome and burnout. The insights offered here are invaluable for individuals entering or advancing in the tech industry. #### Overall Impression "Automating Real-World Tasks with Python" is not just a course; it's an investment in your career. The blend of hands-on labs, practical exercises, and theoretical knowledge equips learners with the tools needed to thrive in various job roles related to programming and data analysis. Moreover, the integration of career resources is a thoughtful touch that prepares you for the workplace environment. #### Recommendation I highly recommend this course to anyone with a foundational understanding of Python who wants to elevate their skills and apply them in meaningful ways. Whether you are a budding developer or a seasoned programmer looking to refine your expertise, this course will provide valuable insights and practical experiences that are directly applicable to real-world challenges. Enrolling in this course will not only enhance your Python capabilities but also boost your confidence as you transition from theory to practical applications. Don't miss out on the opportunity to bring your coding skills to the next level!

Syllabus

Manipulating images

In this module, you’ll be introduced to distributed systems and Non Abstract Large System Design or NALSD. We’ll cover built-in verse external libraries and go over API’s. Next, we’ll loop back to how to generate and manage containers, this time, focusing on VS Studio and Docker. You’ll learn how to use PIL for working with images. Finally, you’ll put what you learned into action in a lab where you will scale and convert images using PIL.

In this module, you’ll learn about web applications and services and APIs. We’ll cover RESTful APIs and REST architecture, as well as, how to use REST APIs to access web data. You’ll learn more about Flask and data serialization. Next, we’ll dive into the Python Requests Library and cover different request methods like HTTP GET and Post. Finally, you’ll be introduced to Django, a full stack web framework. You’ll complete a lab that uses Django to process text files with Python dictionaries and upload to a running web service.

In this module, you’ll learn about logging, the logging module, and exception handling. You’ll be introduced to the Python email library and learn how to add attachments and send emails through the SMTP server. Next, we’ll cover generating PDFs and how to add tables and graphics. Finally, you’ll put all of this together in a lab where you will generate a PDF and send it via email!

In this module, you’ll complete the final course project! You’ll go over the project problem statement, and we’ll provide you with some resources to solve the problem and complete the project. You’ll put everything you have learned throughout this course into action by automating updating catalog information. In this lab, you’ll write a script, generate a PDF, automatically send that PDF via email, and write a script to check the health status of the system.

In this module, you’ll explore job readiness skills and other job related resources. You’ll learn more about working from home and advanced communication skills. We’ll also cover imposter syndrome and burnout and provide tips that you can use throughout your career.