Is it possible to learn Django without an initial knowledge of Python?

Question

I come from procedural PHP with enough knowledge about this. I want to learn Django, but I don't have any basic knowledge of Python. Can I learn Django at the same time while learning Python? Thank you very much!

Answer 1

No. You will write Python code. In Python. You will need to learn Python.

A bit of your project will be CSS, JavaScript and HTML with added template tags.

Most of your project will be Python.

Answer 2

Yes! This is called "immersion." You learn Spanish by speaking Spanish. You learn Python, write Python. Having a specific project ("I'm going to make a webapp that does xyz in Django") in mind gives you something to work with and towards. If you have the time and determination to stick to this, and the useful resources at your disposal (google, SO, docs), this is a great way to find out. It helps to be a specific person (stubborn, intentional, patient).

Answer 3

I would suggest that this is possible, but definitely twists the learning curve. When I learn a new language, I usually like to use it to actually do something useful, and not just write Hello World programs. Learning Django while learning Python can be a good way to do this.

I studied Ruby at the same time that I learned Rails, and I had to look for the basic Ruby syntax every 30 seconds, but in the end I hung it. I found that looking at some of the weird Rails constructs prompted me to explore various Ruby functions that I might not have performed on my own either, so that was an advantage.

I would say give it a chance, and if you find it all overwhelming, sit back a bit and focus on some command line scripts or other simple programs.

Answer 4

The short answer is no.

Long answer. Learning the basics for a particular language essentially uses the basic syntax with its nuances and adds a new level of complexity to it. You come from a different language with a different semantic structure, so it will take you a while to understand what Python is doing and how to do it with Django.

Answer 5

Learning Python through Django is like learning PHP through wordpress. You will learn python, but Django is its own beast. If you are experienced in another language or in web programming, then you will be good at jumping into Django. If this is your first language, you need to learn basic python first.

I also recommend something lighter, like Flask, for starters, as you will use the more raw python and learn how to customize your own structure and folder structure to help you understand Django backstage.