[mddw]

These learning websites never work for me. I know starting with basics (operations, variables, string manipulation) is the sensible thing to do, but they bore me. I always find easier (well, harder but more engaging) to read real code running a real simple application and trying to figure it out by breaking it. (it's not a critic of learning sites or this one in particular. It's just they don't speak to me.)

[SkyMarshal]

For those who already know programming in another language, then your way is SoP. Either that or just read the spec.

Pretty sure sites like these are aimed more at complete beginners.

[jeffwass]

In my case, I've been working through the problems at Project Euler, specifically solving the problems in python as a means to learn. http://projecteuler.net/

One of the cool things is that after you solve a problem you can review how others attacked the problem (people use almost any language you can think of), and seek continual improvements for greater efficiency. Python is a popular choice there.

[silverlake]

I got in the zone and learned Python, Javascript, HTML, CSS, jQuery and a few APIs in a single weekend on codecademy. The secret is large amounts of caffeine.

[theoretick]

The APIs are a super nice touch. Running through tutorials can get really monotonous but the API stuff gave me a burst of excitement to play with the software I use every day.

[Flaggnlos]

Could you recommend some simple applications like you describe?

I'm learning python but find most tutorials boring. Your method sounds interesting.

[jlgaddis]

I just recently (a month or so ago) watched and did the exercises in the Google Python Class. That was my first introduction to Python and I stayed interested because the exercises were a bit of a challenge instead of the same old boring crap you see everywhere.

About two weeks ago, I wrote a somewhat complex application to "scratch an itch" at work and have since started in with Django.

I'd recommend the Google class (it's on Youtube).

[fnbr]

Seconded! Especially for web apps. I'm trying to learn how to implement something with a GUI, and struggling to move beyond the basics.