Python Intro Pre-Work

Complete your application for Code the Dream’s Python Intro course by submitting pre-work. This involves demonstrating your ability to learn foundational Python skills.

We don’t expect applicants to have prior Python experience. If you’re new to Python, our pre-work assignment links to Khan Academy’s free Python tutorial, which gives you the skills to complete Task 1.

Task 1: Python Script

Optional Tutoral: Khan Academy Python

If you are new to coding, we suggest you complete Units 1 and 2 of Khan Academy’s Intro to Computer Science course before attempting the pre-work assignment. Code the Dream uses the flipped classroom model, where you learn most new material at home, then practice it in live group mentor sessions. The following tutorial from Khan Academy is a good way to get used to the self-study-first approach.

To get started with the tutorial:

• Sign up for a free Khan Academy account
• Complete only Units 1 & 2 of the Intro to Computer Science – Python course. By the end of these units, you will have created a Python script very similar to the one you submit for Code the Dream’s pre-work!

We estimate this tutorial will take 1-2 hours. As a reminder, this step is optional – we will not see your progress, and if you already feel confident with Python, feel free to complete the pre-work coding assignment on your own, per the instructions above.

Task 1: Python Script

Confirm the code in your assignment contains all of the following:

• At least two variables using different data types (for example: a string and a number)
• A print statement that uses both variables.
• A conditional (an if/elif/else statement) that changes what gets printed based on a value.
• A short comment explaining what your Python script does.

Test your code before submitting it to confirm the print output matches your plans.

Task 2: Spreadsheet Practice

Optional Tutorial: W3 Schools Google Sheets

If you are new to spreadsheet tools like Google Sheets or Microsoft Excel, use W3 Schools Google Sheets tutorial as a reference. It’s an open-source tool — no need to register or track progress. You don’t need to complete the entire tutorial; instead, reference sections like “Pivot Tables” or “Formulas.”

Section 2: Google Sheets Practice

Make a copy of this Google Sheets spreadsheet and complete the following:

• Fill out the Name text cell at the top with your name and the Description text cell with a one-sentence description of what the data shows.
• Add a formula to the blank Year Average High field to calculate the average high temperature of each city.
• Add a pivot table that summarizes the data by at least one category (average high, average low, or average precipitation).
• Add a chart visualizing at least one finding from the data.

In the Google Sheet template, cells you work in are highlighted yellow.

Task 3: Save Your Work on GitHub

Next, you’ll save your work on GitHub, a platform where developers save and share code.

This video walks you through the following steps. It’s totally okay if you’re new to GitHub — follow these steps and you will have a repository to share.

Step 1 — Create a GitHub account (skip this step if you already have one)

Go to github.com and sign up for a free account.

Step 2 — Create a repository

A repository is a folder for your project on GitHub.

1. Once logged in, click the + icon in the top-right corner and select New repository.
2. Name it ctd-prework.
3. Make sure Public is selected.
4. Toggle Add a README to ON.
5. Click Create Repository.

Congrats, you’ve created your first GitHub repository! If your next screen doesn’t look like the empty repository in the video, make sure you clicked “add a README.”

Step 3 — Upload your Python file

1. In your new repository, click Add file > Create new file
2. In the file name field, type prework.py.
3. Go back to your online Python editor, select all your code (Ctrl+A on Windows, Cmd+A on Mac), copy it, and paste it into the GitHub editor.
4. Scroll down and click Commit new file. Leave the default option (“Commit directly to the main branch”) selected.

Step 4 — Upload your CSV file

1. Click Add file > Upload files.
2. Drag your CTD_prework_yourname.csv file onto the page, or click choose your files to find it.
3. Click Commit changes.

Step 5 — Get your repository link

1. Copy the URL of your repository. It will look something like (https://github.com/ctd-prework).
2. Be ready to paste the URL into the submission form below.

Task 4: Submit Your Work

Check submission deadlines (and result dates) for each class term here.

The Submission Form below includes four total sessions, including a section to attach your GitHub URL.

In the other sections, we want to assess your skills in the areas of Problem Solving, Computer Setup, and Asking for Help. These are essential skills to succeed in our classes. Each section includes guidance and resources in case you are new to coding. Read the instructions carefully and answer the questions as best you are able. Below is a brief description of what to expect each section.

Section 3: Problem-Solving

You have two tasks in the Problem Solving section.

1. Demonstrate that you know how to access developer tools in your browser by sharing a screenshot.
2. Describe a step-by-step how to get from that start point to the end point of a provided flowchart.

Section 4: Computer Setup and File Navigation

You have two tasks in the Computer Setup section.

1. Identify which computer and operating system you are using.
2. Create a folder on your desktop and download a file into that folder then share a screenshot to show you completed the task.

Section 5: Asking for Help

You have two tasks in the Asking for Help section.

1. Look at a screenshot of an error and describe what you learn from looking at that information. We don’t expect you to fully understand the error — just share your observations.
2. Write an example message, based on a template, of how you would reach out to a mentor for help with a coding problem.

To submit your pre-work, complete the following form.

Good luck; you’ve got this! We look forward to seeing you in class!