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  • Python Pocket Reference: Python In Your Pocket (Pocket Reference (O'Reilly))

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Python Pocket Reference: Python In Your Pocket (Pocket Reference (O'Reilly)) 5th Edition, Kindle Edition

4.5 out of 5 stars (1,008)

Updated for both Python 3.4 and 2.7, this convenient pocket guide is the perfect on-the-job quick reference. Youâ??ll find concise, need-to-know information on Python types and statements, special method names, built-in functions and exceptions, commonly used standard library modules, and other prominent Python tools. The handy index lets you pinpoint exactly what you need.

Written by Mark Lutzâ??widely recognized as the worldâ??s leading Python trainerâ??Python Pocket Reference is an ideal companion to Oâ??Reillyâ??s classic Python tutorials, Learning Python and Programming Python, also written by Mark.

This fifth edition covers:

  • Built-in object types, including numbers, lists, dictionaries, and more
  • Statements and syntax for creating and processing objects
  • Functions and modules for structuring and reusing code
  • Pythonâ??s object-oriented programming tools
  • Built-in functions, exceptions, and attributes
  • Special operator overloading methods
  • Widely used standard library modules and extensions
  • Command-line options and development tools
  • Python idioms and hints
  • The Python SQL Database API
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From the brand

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Mark Lutz is a leading Python trainer, the author of Python’s earliest and best-selling texts, and a pioneering figure in the Python world.

Mark is the author of the three O’Reilly books:
Learning Python, Programming Python, and Python Pocket Reference, all currently in fourth or fifth editions. He has been using and promoting Python since 1992, started writing Python books in 1995, and began teaching Python classes in 1997. As of Spring 2013, Mark has instructed 260 Python training sessions, taught roughly 4,000 students in live classes, and written Python books that have sold 400,000 units and been translated to at least a dozen languages.

Together, his two decades of
Python efforts have helped to establish it as one of the most widely used programming languages in the world today. In addition, Mark has been in the software field for 30 years. He holds BS and MS degrees in computer science from the University of Wisconsin where he explored implementations of the Prolog language, and over his career has worked as a professional software developer on compilers, programming tools, scripting applications, and assorted client/server systems.

Mark maintains a training website (
http://learning-python.com) and an additional book support site on the Web (http://www.rmi.net/~lutz).

Product details

  • ASIN ‏ : ‎ B00HZ41PGC
  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ O'Reilly Media
  • Accessibility ‏ : ‎ Learn more
  • Publication date ‏ : ‎ January 22, 2014
  • Edition ‏ : ‎ 5th
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • File size ‏ : ‎ 1.7 MB
  • Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
  • Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
  • Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
  • Print length ‏ : ‎ 359 pages
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1449356958
  • Page Flip ‏ : ‎ Enabled
  • Part of series ‏ : ‎ Pocket Reference (O'Reilly)
  • Best Sellers Rank: #354,819 in Kindle Store (See Top 100 in Kindle Store)
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.5 out of 5 stars (1,008)

About the authors

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Customer reviews

4.5 out of 5 stars
1,008 global ratings

Customers say

Customers find this Python reference book useful as a quick guide for day-to-day programming tasks, with concise information that's well-organized and easy to understand. They appreciate its functionality, with one customer noting it contains 95% of everything needed for everyday programming, and another highlighting its comprehensive coverage of Python's core features. Customers like that it easily fits in their pocket, and one mentions it serves as a great desk reference for code snippets. The readability receives mixed feedback, with some finding it very concise while others say it's hard to understand.
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55 customers mention use, 48 positive, 7 negative
Customers find the book useful as a quick reference guide, appreciating it as a valuable resource for Python coders.
...compact, and does a good job as both a quick review and quick reference.Read more
Nice handy book for the references to the grammar for each line code as I weave in and out of Python, Pygame, Pic Basic and the various versions of &...Read more
very, very helpful when you're a polyglot trying to master up to three languagesRead more
Useful even if you know Python good.Read more
34 customers mention information density, 25 positive, 9 negative
Customers appreciate the information density of the book, with one customer noting that examples help clarify complex concepts.
Has a good tutorial in addition to the reference material....Read more
I recommend this book because it has high information density, it is relatively up-to-date, the sections are well-organized, it is inexpensive, it...Read more
Descriptions not clear. Need actual example of each usage.Read more
...This little book got it you want. Examples are easy and straight to the point, you won't regret it in getting this little book.Read more
28 customers mention reference quality, 22 positive, 6 negative
Customers find the book to be a great reference, with one mentioning it serves as a desk reference for code snippets, while another notes it covers Python 3.4.
...It's a great reference. More importantly, reading through the various topics helped me bring my knowledge to an expert level.Read more
...This edition covers both Python2 and Python3.It's a good reference....Read more
It is not a bad reference. I just really haven't used it that much and instead have found google to be much quicker and more convenient.Read more
There is literally no table of contents. I returned the Kindle version within a minute of opening the book.Read more
11 customers mention ease of use, 8 positive, 3 negative
Customers find the book straightforward for programmers, with one mentioning that the examples are easy to understand and another noting it's convenient for developers on the go.
...Well organized, easily portable, easy to use, and useful as a quick reference - that's what it's supposed to do....Read more
Awesomeness. This little book got it you want. Examples are easy and straight to the point, you won't regret it in getting this little book.Read more
Not for beginners.Read more
Quick, concise, easy!Read more
9 customers mention organization, 7 positive, 2 negative
Customers find the book well-organized, with one customer specifically mentioning its control structures.
...Well organized, easily portable, easy to use, and useful as a quick reference - that's what it's supposed to do....Read more
...The book provides a well-organized and condensed overview of Python's syntax, data types, control structures, and object-oriented programming...Read more
...Compact, easily carried, and easy to read. It's well laid out, and pretty comprehensive. It's well worth the price.Read more
...It's poorly indexed, it's explanations are as dense as lead, and it's too small for comfortable reading....Read more
8 customers mention functionality, 8 positive, 0 negative
Customers find the book works well as a reference companion, with one customer noting it contains 95% of everything needed for everyday programming, while another highlights its comprehensive coverage of Python's core features.
works greatRead more
...reference book offers quick access to essential Python syntax, built-in functions, modules, and other fundamental aspects of the language....Read more
Well structured and organized, great details about syntax, functions, operators... etc. A very useful reference book for Python coders!Read more
Works very well as a pocket reference. As well as some other reviewers, I come from a Perl background and had to adapt to Python in a hurry....Read more
8 customers mention pocket size, 8 positive, 0 negative
Customers appreciate that the book fits easily in their pocket, with one mentioning it's a great addition to their laptop bag.
...Has plenty of reference information but can easily fit in my pocket. Its about as tall and wide as my hand and easily fit in to my pocket.Read more
...But the paper copy is nice to throw in your backpack or have at your computer when you want to check a syntax or concept point in Python....Read more
I love the pocket books from O'Reilly. This one doesn't disappoint....Read more
Fit to my pocketRead more
9 customers mention readability, 6 positive, 3 negative
Customers have mixed opinions about the book's readability, with some finding it very concise while others find it hard to understand.
The Python Pocket Reference is a concise and handy guide that serves as a comprehensive companion for Python programmers....Read more
The only problem is the size and contrast of the text and it is hard to read.Read more
This is very concise.Read more
...look up the reference you need and it is clearly explained and understandable.Read more
good size
5 out of 5 stars
good size
actually is a present for my boyfriend, so I'm just reviewing the quality of the book. Brand new, the letters are in a good size
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Top reviews from the United States

  • Reviewed in the United States on June 13, 2023
    Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
    The Python Pocket Reference is a concise and handy guide that serves as a comprehensive companion for Python programmers. With its compact size and easy-to-navigate format, this reference book offers quick access to essential Python syntax, built-in functions, modules, and other fundamental aspects of the language.

    One of the standout features of the Python Pocket Reference is its comprehensive coverage of Python's core features. The book provides a well-organized and condensed overview of Python's syntax, data types, control structures, and object-oriented programming concepts. It serves as a reliable resource for both beginners who are learning Python and experienced developers who need a quick refresher or a reminder of specific language details.

    The book also includes an extensive collection of concise code examples that illustrate the usage of various Python constructs. These examples help clarify complex concepts and demonstrate best practices, making it easier for readers to apply the information in their own projects. The clear and concise explanations accompanying the code snippets further enhance understanding.

    The Python Pocket Reference offers a quick lookup for built-in functions, standard library modules, and commonly used Python idioms. Its alphabetical index and well-structured organization allow readers to find the information they need swiftly. This makes it a valuable companion for day-to-day programming tasks, as well as for exploring lesser-known language features and modules.

    The portability and compact size of the Python Pocket Reference make it convenient for developers on the go. Whether you're working in a coffee shop, attending a coding workshop, or collaborating with colleagues, having this reference at your fingertips allows for quick problem-solving and efficient coding. Its durable construction ensures that it can withstand frequent use and travel.

    One aspect to consider is that due to the compact nature of the reference, some topics may lack extensive explanations or in-depth coverage. While it provides concise information, readers looking for more detailed explanations or advanced Python topics may need to consult additional resources. However, as a pocket-sized reference, it strikes a good balance between brevity and coverage.

    In conclusion, the Python Pocket Reference is a valuable resource for Python programmers of all skill levels. Its compact size, comprehensive coverage of core language features, and quick-reference format make it an indispensable tool for quick lookups and on-the-spot coding. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced Python developer, having this reference in your pocket allows you to access vital information whenever you need it, making your Python programming journey more efficient and enjoyable.
    6 people found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on November 1, 2025
    Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
    The content is new enough - take these with me on long trips for the engagement.
  • Reviewed in the United States on April 30, 2016
    Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
    Helped me get by with python in the beginning.
    I actually went and read about two-thirds of the book before I started to use it as a reference book.
    Within a couple of weeks, I was writing code to throw API calls to a web service to integrate some data between an ERP system.
    Python is actually a really awesome language. I mostly use it for small server-side projects, and this book will provide the information you need for that. For GUI type applications, you will have to find other reference. There are some good tutorials on YouTube to get you up and going... try searching for wxPython or TkInter tutorials.
    2 people found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on March 20, 2025
    Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
    Works very well as a pocket reference.
    As well as some other reviewers, I come from a Perl background and had to adapt to Python in a hurry. I found myself asking time and again "what's that method name again?". Ordering a hard copy book from Amazon to overseas turn out to be easier that searching through docs.python.org. I'm happy with the book.
    Maybe the book has improvement room in both style and organization, but it's still a great pocket reference. Another reviewer that recommends the post-it tweak is right on the money!
    My most serious complain is that, being a newcomer to Python, all the 2.X/3.4 variations content in the book feels like dead weight.
  • Reviewed in the United States on September 18, 2022
    Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
    I believe this book is free in PDF format (Do a google search). But the paper copy is nice to throw in your backpack or have at your computer when you want to check a syntax or concept point in Python. It's a nice, compact review/cheat sheet. I would buy this again.
    5 people found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on October 16, 2024
    Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
    I love the pocket books from O'Reilly. This one doesn't disappoint. If you've used any of the O'Rielly pocket books before and have been thinking about this one, just do it. SO easy to quickly look up info and maybe dog ear a couple pages for methods or functions.
  • Reviewed in the United States on August 4, 2019
    Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
    I have used this book sparingly over the past 6 months, and I code as a hobby not a living. It has a lot of useful information regarding the Python language including pointing out differences between versions 3.4 and 2.7. The book is written for someone who has an in-depth knowledge of computer science, and although I have a degree in such a field, I have only started using Python upon buying this book so some terms were difficult to understand even for me. As the title of the book states, it is a reference, not something to be read in the evening.
    3 people found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on April 4, 2016
    Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
    I'm learning Python but I already program in a few languages, so I wasn't sure I needed the big "Intro to this Language in great Detail!" book. I ordered this one instead and it's become my constant companion on my Python journey. It's exactly what I wanted when I need to look up the syntax or function I know exists but don't know exactly how to format in this new language. I'm learning python to play with the Raspberry Pi, not for any professional reasons, so YMMV.

    I can't rave about this pocket reference enough. It's the greatest. I've been through quite a few, even other O'Reilly pocket references, and while they've all been helpful to some extent, I was never able to teach myself an entire language from a pocket reference. I don't think that's a thing that would work if you've never programmed before, but if you're already a programmer and you've just decided to add Python to your repertoire, skip the big book and stick this one in your desk drawer instead. Between it and google you'll be fine.
    8 people found this helpful
    Report

Top reviews from other countries

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  • Lionel
    4.0 out of 5 stars Perfect reference book. no unnecessary speech
    Reviewed in the United Arab Emirates on December 24, 2020
    Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
    I'm an experienced developer but new to Python. This book is a good quick reference guide that complete perfectly Learning Python from same author
  • geraud guibert
    5.0 out of 5 stars livre de poche
    Reviewed in France on October 2, 2015
    Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
    un petit livre de la serie des indispensables de la collection des o'reilly
    bref, toujours un objet pratique et concis
    Report
  • Gagan S
    4.0 out of 5 stars Nice book, but a bit costly
    Reviewed in India on June 29, 2016
    Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
    A bit costly since the book is imported. Can be very handy when you don't have access to Internet. Also, it can help you refresh your memory since it covers various topics concisely.
  • O'Brian
    5.0 out of 5 stars Good pocket guide
    Reviewed in the United Kingdom on July 23, 2020
    Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
    Good pocket guide, it does not cover everything so you will still need to use good ole Google. But is a good guide worth having.
  • Michel S.
    5.0 out of 5 stars Handy reference that saves time
    Reviewed in Canada on December 5, 2018
    Format: PaperbackVerified Purchase
    Great pocket guide , with time being of essence nowadays, it is faster for me to grab this book amd find a needed reference than googling it , especially when designing a logic amd you are away from your screen

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