A guide to learning basic programming by writing fun, working programs that gradually become more complex This classroom-tested, workbook-style text teaches basic programming by guiding readers to write Python programs that mimic interactive chatbots. Unlike textbooks with opaque examples explained in dry, monotonous code, Python Practice Lab engages readers immediately, with more than thirty motivating and hands-on examples. Readers learn by writing fun, working programs that gradually become more difficult as new concepts are introduced. Most exercises are open ended, promoting creativity in the process of learning. Along with coding practice, the book offers brief introductions to a range of other topics in computer science, including recommendation systems, computer vision, and big data, and relates these subjects to the programming concepts covered in the book. Python Practice Lab will be an essential resource for anyone who wants to learn to program, instructors teaching Python to beginners, and students who want to supplement their coursework by building compete and functional programs. Uses natural language and text strings rather than math as the main building blocks for learning about program structure Rewrites code comprehension exercises in equivalent code with inclusive and approachable variables rather than terse, single-letter variables Challenges readers to write a full program in each chapter Presents a selection of projects at the end of the book that integrates the concepts introduced in previous chapters