NCERT Class 11 Computer Science Computer Science: Chapter 5 — Getting Started with Python
This chapter introduces students to the Python programming language, a high-level, free, and open-source language. It explains the concept of a program and a programming language, differentiating between machine language and high-level languages. The chapter details how Python uses an interpreter to convert source code into machine language, processing instructions one by one. It highlights key features of Python, including its interpreted nature, ease of understanding, case sensitivity, portability, rich library, web development capabilities, and use of indentation. The process of downloading Python and working with the Python interpreter (shell) is also covered, showing the Python prompt (>>>) indicating readiness for instructions. This foundational knowledge is crucial for students beginning their journey in Python programming within the CBSE curriculum.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 11 |
| Subject | Computer Science |
| Book | Computer Science |
| Chapter | Chapter 5 — Getting Started with Python |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 3 minutes |
| Word count | 594 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the concept of a program and a programming language.
- Differentiate between machine language and high-level programming languages.
- Identify the role of interpreters and compilers in program execution.
- Recognize the key features and benefits of the Python programming language.
- Understand how to download and start working with the Python interpreter.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Program | An ordered set of instructions to be executed by a computer to carry out a specific task. |
| Programming Language | The language used to specify a set of instructions to the computer. |
| Machine Language | The language of 0s and 1s understood directly by computers. |
| High-level Language | Programming languages like Python, C++, Java that are easier for humans to write and comprehend. |
| Source Code | A program written in a high-level language. |
| Interpreter | A program translator that processes program statements one by one, translating and executing them. |
| Compiler | A program translator that translates the entire source code into object code at once. |
| Python Prompt | The symbol (>>>) indicating that the Python interpreter is ready to accept instructions. |
| Indentation | The use of whitespace to define blocks and nested blocks in Python code. |
| Portable | Able to run on various operating systems and hardware platforms. |
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Practice questions
- What is a program? Answer: A program is an ordered set of instructions to be executed by a computer to carry out a specific task.
- What is the difference between machine language and a high-level language? Answer: Machine language uses 0s and 1s, difficult for humans. High-level languages like Python are easier for humans to write and understand.
- How does an interpreter work? Answer: An interpreter processes program statements one by one, translating and executing them until an error is encountered or the program finishes.
- What does the Python prompt (>>>) indicate? Answer: The Python prompt indicates that the interpreter is ready to take instructions.
- Name two features of Python. Answer: Python is a high-level, free, open-source, interpreted, case-sensitive, portable language with a rich library and uses indentation.
Frequently asked questions
What is Python?
Python is a high-level, free, open-source, interpreted programming language known for its simple syntax and portability.
Why are high-level languages like Python needed?
High-level languages are needed because computers only understand machine language (0s and 1s), which is difficult for humans to write and comprehend.
What is the role of an interpreter in Python?
An interpreter translates Python source code into machine language, executing instructions one by one.
Is Python case-sensitive?
Yes, Python is case-sensitive, meaning 'NUMBER' and 'number' are treated as different identifiers.
Where can I download Python?
The latest version of Python 3 can be downloaded from the official website: https://www.python.org/
What is the Python prompt?
The Python prompt, typically '>>>', is displayed by the Python interpreter to indicate that it is ready to receive commands or statements.
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NCERT Class 11 Computer Science — Computer Science — Chapter 5 — Getting Started with Python. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.