Where can I find free computer tutorials?

Content

I’m completely new to coding and want to learn Python from scratch for a potential career switch into data analysis. I’m overwhelmed by the sheer number of resources out there and don’t want to waste time on outdated or low-quality materials. Could anyone recommend reliable platforms where I can find beginner-friendly Python tutorials that are absolutely free? I’m particularly interested in video lessons with hands-on coding exercises and quizzes to test my understanding. Bonus points if the tutorials cover essential libraries like Pandas and NumPy too!

You can find free computer tutorials on the following platforms and resources:

Online Learning Platforms

  1. YouTube

    • Channels like freeCodeCamp, Programming with Mosh, The Net Ninja, and Harvard’s CS50 offer comprehensive video tutorials on programming, web development, software tools, and IT skills.
    • Search for specific topics (e.g., "Python basics," "Excel tutorials").

  2. Khan Academy

    • Free courses on computer science, algorithms, and programming (e.g., JavaScript, SQL). Includes interactive exercises and videos.

  3. freeCodeCamp

    • Extensive curriculum covering web development, data analysis, machine learning, and more. Offers hands-on projects and certifications.

  4. Codecademy

    • Free introductory courses on HTML, CSS, JavaScript, SQL, and Python. Interactive coding exercises.
  5. edX & Coursera
    • Free audit access to courses from top universities (e.g., MIT, Stanford). Topics range from AI to cybersecurity. No certificate unless paid.

Specialized Websites

  1. W3Schools

    • Tutorials for web technologies (HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Python, SQL, etc.) with online examples and exercises.

  2. GeeksforGeeks

    • Articles, practice problems, and tutorials on programming languages, algorithms, and software engineering.

  3. Tutorialspoint

    • Free tutorials on programming, web development, database systems, and DevOps. Includes downloadable resources.

  4. Microsoft Learn

    • Official Microsoft resources for Azure, Windows, Office 365, and developer tools.
    • Google Developers: Free tutorials for Android, web, and machine learning.

  5. The Odin Project

    • Open-source curriculum for web development (Ruby on Rails, JavaScript, databases).
  6. SoloLearn
    • Mobile/desktop app for bite-sized lessons on coding languages (C++, Python, Swift) via quizzes and projects.
See also  How can I identify if a hardware component is faulty?

University & Institutional Resources

  1. MIT OpenCourseWare

    • Free access to MIT’s computer science lectures, notes, and assignments (e.g.,Introduction to Computer Science).

  2. Stanford Online

    • Free courses on AI, computer science, and software engineering.
  3. Code.org
    • Beginner-friendly tutorials for kids and adults on block-based/Python coding.

Community & Forum-Based Learning

  1. Stack Overflow

    • Search for specific problems or concepts; community-driven solutions often include tutorials.
  2. Reddit
    • Subreddits like r/learnprogramming, r/programming, and r/compsci share free tutorials, resources, and project ideas.

Other Notable Resources

  1. Cybrary

    • Free cybersecurity courses (e.g., ethical hacking, network security).

  2. Linux Foundation

    • Free introductory courses on Linux, cloud security, and Kubernetes.

  3. Doe Network

    • Free tutorials on ethical hacking and penetration testing.
  4. Local Libraries & Community Centers
    • Many libraries offer free workshops, e-learning platforms (e.g., Lynda.com via library cards), and access to computers.

Tips for Effective Learning:

  • Focus on project-based tutorials to apply skills.
  • Use interactive platforms (e.g., Codecademy, freeCodeCamp) for hands-on practice.
  • Verify outdated content by checking dates on tutorials.
  • Combine multiple sources (e.g., videos + documentation) for deeper understanding.

Published: October 2, 2025