Python Pocket Reference

by Mark Lutz
Python Pocket Reference cover
Good Books rating 4.17
Education and Reference
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Waterstones
Paperback • £19.99
Amazon
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Technical
  • ID: 8542
  • Added: 2025-12-22
  • Updated: 2025-12-30
  • ISBN: 9781449356941
  • Publisher: "O'Reilly Media, Inc."
  • Published: 2014-01-22
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Updated for both Python 3.4 and 2.7, this pocket guide is an essential on-the-job reference for Python programmers. It provides concise, need-to-know information on Python types and statements, special method names, built-in functions and exceptions, and commonly used standard library modules. The handy index allows for quick lookup of specific information. Written by Mark Lutz, widely recognized as the world's leading Python trainer, this fifth edition covers a wide range of topics, including built-in object types, statements and syntax for creating and processing objects, functions and modules for structuring and reusing code, Python's object-oriented programming tools, and more. It also includes Python idioms and hints, making it an ideal companion to classic Python tutorials. /n/nThis pocket reference is not just a quick guide to the language syntax and semantics, but also includes command-line options and development tools, as well as the Python SQL Database API. It's a must-have for any Python developer looking to have quick access to the most important aspects of the language.

Reviews
Goodreads · 2025-12-22
excellent 4.00

This book is praised as a compact toolbox that delivers essential information quickly. It is highly recommended for its ease of use and comprehensive coverage of Python's core language.

Many users appreciate this book for its ability to provide quick access to the most relevant Python information. It is described as an indispensable resource for programmers who need to look up syntax, built-in functions, and other key details on the fly. The book's compact format and clear organization make it a favorite among both beginners and experienced developers. Additionally, the inclusion of an easy-lookup index enhances its usability, allowing users to find what they need without wasting time. Overall, it is seen as a valuable addition to any Python programmer's library.

Quick quotes

    This book is a compact toolbox that delivers need-to-know information at the flip of a page.

    It's an easy-to-use reference to the core language.

    This third edition also includes an easy-lookup index to help you find what you need.

O'Reilly · Yasin Soliman · 2020-02-20
fantastic 5.00

The book is highly rated for its usefulness and comprehensive coverage of Python. It is considered a must-have reference for programmers.

Yasin Soliman gives this book a perfect rating, highlighting its usefulness and comprehensive coverage of Python. It is described as a must-have reference for programmers, providing essential information in a clear and concise manner. The book's ability to cover both Python 3.4 and 2.7, along with highlighting the changes between these versions, is particularly appreciated. This makes it a valuable resource for developers working with different versions of Python. Overall, it is seen as an indispensable tool for anyone serious about Python programming, offering a wealth of information in a compact and accessible format.

Quick quotes

    The first thing to note is that this book is highly rated for its usefulness.

    It is a must-have reference for programmers.

    The reference covers both Python 3.4 and 2.7, and it highlights changes between the two major releases in a succinct, clear way.

DiscoPosse · 2014-03-10
good 3.50

The pocket guide is enjoyed for its perfect depth of technical information, likened to having a dictionary at your side. It is considered a handy reference for Python programmers.

The reviewer enjoys pocket guides for their balanced depth of technical information, and this book fits that description perfectly. It is compared to having a dictionary at your side, providing quick and easy access to the information you need. This makes it an ideal companion for Python programmers who want a concise yet comprehensive reference. The book's organization and clarity are highlighted as key strengths, making it a valuable resource for both learning and quick lookups. Overall, it is seen as a useful tool for anyone working with Python, offering a good balance between detail and accessibility.

Quick quotes

    I really enjoy pocket guides because it feels like the perfect depth of technical info, and is basically like having a dictionary at your side.

    It is a handy guide for Python programmers.

    It provides a quick reference to the language's syntax, built-in functions, and more.

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