Hypothetically Asked Questions

This page has some helpful questions and answers.

What is Python?

Python is a dynamic object-oriented programming language that can be used for many kinds of software development. For more info see: Introduction to Python for non-geeks

What kind of computer do I need to use Python?

''"Python runs on Windows, Linux/Unix, Mac OS X, OS/2, Amiga, Palm Handhelds, and Nokia mobile phones." ''To make your own programs, you will probably need something with a keyboard, and you need a copy of the Python interpreter.

Where can I get the Python interpreter?

If you have Linux or OS X, then you have it already. For Windows and other platforms, you can download it from python.org .

I only have access to a lab/school/work computer and I cannot install programs

With PortablePython you can run it from a USB stick or MP3 player, or from your desktop or whereever, see the homepage for more details.

Where is the West Midlands?

Short Answer: The Midlands is the 'Heart of England', see the map below. It is the home of Shakespeare, the steam engine, J.R.R. Tolkein and the Spaghetti Junction .

The West Midlands is a region and a European constituency, as shown above, but the words "West Midlands" are also used to refer to the Greater Birmingham area, which in the map below is labelled "Birmingham and surrounding areas", a very controversial strategy. This main urban conurbation is Birmingham, Coventry, Wolverhampton, Sutton Coldfield, Solihull, Dudley, Walsall and West Bromwich,and the rest is the green and pleasant lands of the West Midlands.