Quick Start Guide for COMP 130 Students
If you’ve taken COMP 130 (Introduction to Computing), you have a solid foundation in Python programming fundamentals that you can leverage during the hackathon!
What You Already Know
From COMP 130, you’re familiar with:
- Python syntax and basic programming concepts
- Conditionals (if/else statements)
- Loops (for/while)
- Functions and parameters
- Basic data structures (lists, dictionaries)
- Libraries and objects
- Recursive techniques
- Basic software engineering (testing, debugging)
Project Ideas Perfect for Your Skill Level
1. Data Analysis Tool
Use your Python skills to build a tool that analyzes and visualizes a dataset. Consider using:
- Pandas for data manipulation
- Matplotlib or Seaborn for visualization
- CSV files as data sources
2. Simple Game
Create a text-based or simple graphical game using:
- Pygame for graphics (optional)
- Object-oriented design for game elements
- User input handling
3. Automation Script
Build a script that automates a repetitive task, such as:
- File organization
- Data processing
- Web scraping with Beautiful Soup
Recommended Libraries to Explore
These Python libraries build on what you’ve learned and are approachable for your experience level:
- Pandas: Data analysis and manipulation
- Matplotlib/Seaborn: Data visualization
- Flask: Simple web applications
- Requests: HTTP requests for APIs
- Streamlit: Easy interactive data apps
Getting Started Steps
-
Set up your development environment:
- Make sure you have Python 3.9+ installed
- Set up a virtual environment for your project
- Install necessary libraries with pip
-
Join the RDH GitHub organization:
- Follow the Git Setup Guide
- Create a repository for your project
-
Choose a simple but meaningful project:
- Focus on something you can complete in 12 hours
- Build on concepts you’re familiar with
- Add one or two new technologies to stretch your skills
-
Start with a minimal viable product (MVP):
- Get the core functionality working first
- Add features incrementally
- Test frequently
Workshops Recommended for You
- Intro to Git & GitHub - Essential for project submission
- Web Development Fundamentals - Learn to create web interfaces for your Python programs
Remember: A hackathon is about learning through building. Focus on creating something that works, even if it’s simple, rather than something ambitious that remains incomplete.