From Calculator to Code: Understanding How Programming Languages Work

Have You Ever Wondered How Your Calculator Works?

Think about that CASIO calculator you use in your classes. When you press 2 + 3, something amazing happens:

• Input: You provide numbers and operations like (2 + 3) or (10 -2)
• Process: Calculator follows pre-defined mathematical rules
• Output: Result appears on screen as (5) or (8)

But here's the interesting part - your calculator doesn't naturally "know" how to add or subtract. Someone had to program it with step-by-step instructions to perform these operations.

ATM Machine

Similarly, when you use an ATM:

• Input:  Insert your Card, Enter the PIN, Enter withdrawal amount
• Process: Pre-defined banking operations will be performed (verify PIN, check balance, dispense cash from ATM and updates Balance )
• Output: Gives Money and prints receipt

Again, someone programmed the ATM to behave exactly this way!

 It's not just ATMs or calculators - every digital device or system around us is pre-programmed with specific instructions to carry out its designated tasks and deliver the expected results.

Can you name one other device at your home or school that’s “programmed” to behave a certain way?

So, What Exactly is Programming?

Programming is simply giving step-by-step instructions to computers, just like giving directions to a friend:

"Take the second left, go straight for 500 meters, then turn right at the signal."

In programming, we write similar instructions for computers using special languages called Programming languages. There are many programming languages available around the world. where each language has its particular strengths and is crafted to work with designated systems, Below are few popular ones and its use case:

• Java (used in Android apps)
• JavaScript (makes websites interactive)
• C++ (builds games and fast applications)
• Python (perfect for beginners!)

Why Python is Perfect for You

Python is like the English language of programming - it's designed to be easy to understand and write the code. Rather than focusing on complex syntax, you can concentrate on building logic. This makes Python perfect for beginners to programming, while still providing extensive capabilities (we'll explore more of this later)

Python Works Just Like Your Calculator

Input in Python

similar to how a calculator waits for you to enter numbers, Python pauses and waits for your input, Python takes input from Users by using the input function.

name = input("What's your name? ")
age = input("What's your age? ")

You don't need to grasp every detail right now - just stay with the lesson and follow along

Don’t worry if you type something wrong or see an error! Everyone—especially beginners—learns best by trying things and making little mistakes