andy_m

I'm thinking about possible projects I could complete in Python. Nothing too advanced, just something fun which will improve my skills. I've been learning the language for a while now, and have read a few of the online tutorials and most of 'Learning Python'. I've yet to do anything really interesting with the stuff i've learnt, though.

I thought I'd put off learning about Pygame or the various GUI toolkits for now. Starting a project in one of these areas might be a case of 'learning to run before I can walk', I reckon. Anyway, here are the ideas I've had: -

- Something to do with MSN messenger. Make use of msnp.py (http://msnp.sourceforge.net/). Documentation (or lack of) might be a problem though.

- ID3 tag parser. Make use of module found at http://id3-py.sourceforge.net/.

- Tutorial at http://www.osix.net/modules/article/?id=479 shows how to install LEDs in your PC case and control them via the parallel port. pyParallel (http://pyserial.sourceforge.net/pyparallel.html) could be used to turn the lights on/off programmatically. Some of Pythons built-in modules could be used here e.g. use poplib to check for new e-mail. When you receive one, your script triggers a certain LED and makes it blink.

- libgmail (http://libgmail.sourceforge.net/) also looks interesting.

What do you think of these ideas so far? Any suggstions?

Thanks

Sane

For my first project I jumped right in to an RPG. I've had success so far, and I only read the first 6 chapters of the tutorial! :eek:

Those projects seem fun, but I'd try something revolving around the concepts of Python. Try making like Tic-Tac-Toe (WITHOUT A TUTORIAL), or a short video game with limited graphics.

thechristelegacy

I've always found it best to start small, and work my way up. I always found it a fun challenge to do basic encryption algorithems in Python, evem if they are simple substituion. It helps you learn many of Python's key features.

Dietrich

Python is great with strings and sentences. A random story generator would be fun.

__________________
I looked it up on the Intergnats!

Cerulean

Code whatever hits your mind - the more you program in the Python the easier it becomes to "think in Python", meaning you code faster and write higher quality code.
libgmail is pretty nice to fool around with - a little buggy at times, yet useable.
I had issues with msnp as the version I used wouldn't respond to a forwarding for authentication sent by the MSN server, but that may be fixed now. I ended up writing a wrapper around msnlib which, although lacking in docs too, worked for me.

Have fun whatever you do