An Introduction to the Art of Computer Programming Using Python in the Age of Generative AI

Preface: Computer Programming in the Age of AI

Now is better than never.
Tim Peters, Zen of Python

The Shift: From Writer to Architect

Generative AI can now translate natural language into programming language and is improving rapidly. This raises the question: do we still need to learn to program? What if it's enough to be able to read and understand code? Even such a passive knowledge—often referred to as Code Literacy—will allow us to efficiently prompt AI to write programs for us. This website aims to demystify the core principles of computer programming in Python, one of the most widely used programming languages.

In this new era, the role of the programmer is shifting. We are moving from being "bricklayers" (writing every line of syntax manually) to "architects" (designing the logic and verifying the structural integrity). If you cannot read the code the AI generates, you cannot verify if it is secure, efficient, or merely a convincing hallucination.

Generative AI Insight: The Zen of Prompting
The principles of good coding apply directly to Prompt Engineering. To get the best code from an AI, you must provide detailed instructions and context. Vague prompts lead to vague code. Understanding programming concepts (like "loops," "functions," and "exceptions") gives you the vocabulary to direct the AI with precision.

We need to be able to provide AI with detailed instructions and context so that it can generate efficient and useful code.

Throughout this site, you will find code examples that you can execute directly, allowing for hands-on learning and experimentation.

To give you a taste, here is the code to print "The Zen of Python", written by Tim Peters. These 19 aphorisms summarize the key principles behind Python's design. They emphasize readability and simplicity—traits that are more important than ever when humans spend more time reviewing AI-generated code than writing it from scratch.


import this
        

The site is currently under construction and new content will be added. If you have any ideas or suggestions, please contact us at: mail(at)condensed.info

Back to Home