Python's interactive usage modes are easy to take for granted, but to me, interactive use is one reason it's my favorite programming language. Here are the reasons why interactive Python is my favorite programming tool.

After writing small scripts in Python, I wanted to try to write a "real" command-line app. I decided to build a simple weather forecast app. I was surprised at how quickly and easily I could throw together something like this over a weekend. Here's how I did it.

Writers and programmers have had a similar experience: staring at a blank screen, the blinking cursor mocking you. I've found a way to get that cursor moving. You might not think that statistics would be a good motivator for programming ideas, but you'd be surprised. You might find your own ways to get your programming ideas flowing.