Python Notebook Refresher
Last updated on 2026-06-23 | Edit this page
Estimated time: 30 minutes
Overview
Questions
- Can I write and run Python code in a Jupyter Notebook?
- Do I understand how variables persist across cells?
- Can I create a basic plot?
Objectives
- Verify your Python and Jupyter skills before the workshop
- Complete three self-check exercises covering basic coding, variables, and plotting
Overview
This page is a quick refresher, not a full tutorial. You should already be comfortable with basic Python — variables, data types, imports, and simple operations. If any of the exercises below feel unfamiliar, please review a Python fundamentals tutorial before the workshop.
We will be using Google Colab for all notebook activities. Colab runs in your browser and requires no installation — just a Google account.
Quick Reminders
Cells are the building blocks of a notebook. Code cells run Python; Markdown cells hold formatted text.
Running a cell: Shift + Enter runs the
current cell and moves to the next.
Statefulness: The notebook kernel remembers
variables across cells. If you run a cell that sets x = 5,
every cell after that can use x — until you restart the
kernel.
Restart & Run All: Before sharing or submitting a notebook, always restart the kernel and run all cells from top to bottom to make sure everything works in order.
Exercise 1: Python Coding
Covers basic syntax, printing, and simple operations.
Exercise 2: Variable Handling
Covers how data is stored, updated, and reused across cells.
Exercise 3: Python Plotting
Covers creating basic charts with matplotlib.
- Jupyter Notebooks let you run Python code in small, interactive cells.
- Variables persist across cells — execution order matters.
- If all three exercises felt comfortable, you are ready for the workshop.