Recommended Python Courses/resources (to a non-coder) for SnT

To get started with Python as an aspiring trader, here’s a roadmap based on the most helpful WSO content:

1. Python Topics to Focus On:

• Basic Programming Concepts:
  • Understanding object types: strings, lists, tuples, dictionaries.
  • Writing and executing basic Python code.
  • For loops and conditional logic.
  • Input/output formatting.
• Data Manipulation:
  • Master the Pandas library for data cleansing and manipulation.
  • Learn NumPy for numerical computations.
• Visualization:
  • Use libraries like Seaborn and Matplotlib for creating graphs and visualizing data.
• Automation:
  • Automating Excel tasks using Python (e.g., combining Python with VBA).
  • Emailing from your machine using libraries like win32com.
• Market Data APIs:
  • Learn how to connect to market data APIs for sourcing and analyzing data.
• Backtesting:
  • Build and test trading strategies using Python.
  • Explore libraries like Pyfolio for portfolio risk management.
• Advanced Topics (Optional):
  • Machine learning for building investor classifiers.
  • Web scraping for sourcing data.

2. Recommended Resources:

• WSO Python Fundamentals Course:
  • Covers Python basics, data structures, and essential libraries like NumPy and Pandas.
  • Teaches how to filter, segment, and summarize data.
  • Ideal for beginners with no prior coding experience.
• WSO Applied Machine Learning Course:
  • Focuses on real-world case studies in investment banking and capital markets.
  • Builds on Python fundamentals to create machine learning models.
• External Resources:
  • DataCamp (https://www.datacamp.com/) for interactive Python tutorials.
  • Andrew Ng’s Machine Learning course on Coursera (though it uses Octave, it’s a great intro to ML concepts).

3. Practical Tips:

• Start small: Focus on mastering Python basics before diving into advanced topics.
• Practice regularly: Work on small projects like automating Excel tasks or analyzing historical stock data.
• Use an IDE: Jupyter Notebook is beginner-friendly and widely used in finance for Python coding.

By focusing on these areas and leveraging the WSO Python courses, you’ll build a strong foundation to support your trading aspirations.

Sources: Programming/Technical Skills for Finance: SQL and Python, Programming/Technical Skills for Finance: SQL and Python, WSO Python / Machine Learning Courses - NOW AVAILABLE, 0 to pseudo quant real quick - analytical skills for juniors with finance background, Python for Traders