Module 2: Technical Preparation: Data Types and If Statements

Overview

Module 2 focuses on understanding data types in Python and how to convert between them. You'll also learn about Boolean logic and how to use if-statements to control the flow of your programs. These concepts are fundamental to solving programming challenges on LeetCode and in the General Code Assessment (GCA).

Learning Objectives

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

  • Identify and work with different Python data types
  • Convert data between different types using casting functions
  • Apply if-statements and conditional logic to solve programming problems
  • Use Boolean operators to create complex conditions
  • Implement decision-making logic in LeetCode problems

Core Competencies

Data Types and Conversions

In this section, you'll learn about:

  • Common Python data types (int, float, str, bool)
  • Type checking using the type() function
  • Converting between data types with casting functions
  • Handling type conversion issues and errors

If/Else Statements

This section covers:

  • Basic if-statement syntax
  • Using else and elif clauses
  • Comparison operators (==, !=, >, <, >=, <=)
  • Nested if-statements and how to avoid them

Boolean Logic with And/Or

Learn about:

  • Logical operators: and, or, not
  • Truth tables and Boolean algebra
  • Short-circuit evaluation
  • Complex conditions with multiple operators

Guided Project

In the guided project, you'll practice using LeetCode to solve programming challenges that require you to apply your knowledge of data types and conditional logic. You'll focus on type conversion and using if-statements to implement decision-making in your programs.

Project Resources

LeetCode Main Website LeetCode Programming Skills Study Plan LeetCode Easy Problems

Recommended LeetCode Problems

Note: For all problems, you can select Python as your programming language using the dropdown menu in the LeetCode code editor.

Valid Palindrome Practice string manipulation and type handling Check If N and Its Double Exist Apply conditional logic and data comparison Number of Days Between Two Dates Work with different data types Convert Integer to Sum of Two No-Zero Integers Practice type conversion and logic Maximum 69 Number Work with string and integer conversions Divisible and Non-divisible Sums Difference Practice with conditional logic

Practice Activities

To reinforce your understanding of the concepts covered in this module, complete the following activities:

  • Choose and solve at least 5 problems from the recommended list above
  • For each problem:
    • First try to solve it without looking at hints
    • If you get stuck, use the Hints feature (available on most problems)
    • Consider reviewing the Discussion section to see how others approached the problem
  • Consider practicing debugging by intentionally creating errors in your solutions and fixing them

Additional Resources

Python Documentation

Python Built-in Types Python If Statements Boolean Operations

Practice Resources

W3Schools Python Data Types Real Python: Conditional Statements Real Python: Boolean Values in Python