Python for Researchers
Essential tools, libraries, documentation, and learning materials specifically curated for leveraging Python in research workflows.
Core Essentials & Environment Setup
Python Official Documentation
The definitive source for Python language features, standard library, and tutorials. Essential reference.
Anaconda Distribution
Popular Python/R distribution for scientific computing. Simplifies package management (conda) and environment setup.
Pip & Virtual Environments (`venv`)
Understand Python’s standard package installer (`pip`) and the importance of creating isolated project environments (`python -m venv myenv`).
Key Scientific Libraries
NumPy
Fundamental package for numerical computation. Efficient arrays, linear algebra, random numbers.
Seaborn
Statistical data visualization based on Matplotlib. High-level interface for attractive graphics.
SciPy
Ecosystem of open-source software for mathematics, science, and engineering. Includes modules for optimization, stats, signal processing.
Scikit-learn
Machine learning library. Tools for classification, regression, clustering, model selection, and more.
Development Tools & Workflow
Jupyter Notebook / Lab
Web-based interactive development environment. Ideal for data exploration, analysis, and visualization.
Visual Studio Code
Free, powerful source code editor with excellent Python support (IntelliSense, debugging, notebooks).
PyCharm (Community Edition)
Dedicated Python IDE with code analysis, graphical debugger, and integrated unit tester. Free community version available.
Git & GitHub / GitLab
Essential version control system (Git) and hosting platforms (GitHub, GitLab) for tracking changes and collaboration.
Learning, Reference & Community
Tutorials & Articles
- Real Python (High-quality tutorials)
- Official Python Getting Started
Cheat Sheets
Community & Style
- Stack Overflow (Python Tag) (Q&A)
- PEP 8 – Style Guide (Code style)
Further Learning (Platforms)
Explore dedicated Python/Data Science tracks (check for free/audit options):
General Online Learning Platforms
Productivity & Collaboration Tools
Google Workspace
Suite of tools (Docs, Sheets, Slides, Drive, Calendar). Free tier available. Excellent for collaboration.
Notion
All-in-one workspace for notes, tasks, wikis, and databases. Highly flexible for organization.
Study Aids & Reference
Mind Mapping & Visualization
- Mindmeister
- Creately Concept Maps
- draw.io / diagrams.net (Free diagramming)
Note Taking
- Evernote
- Microsoft OneNote (Often free)
- Obsidian (Linked notes, markdown based)
JSTOR
Digital library of academic journals, books, and primary sources (often requires institutional access).
Google