Walrus Operator in Python 3.8

One of the biggest highlights of Python 3.8.0 is a new feature for assignment expressions known as the Walrus Operator.

"There is new syntax := that assigns values to variables as part of a larger expression," the Python 3.8.0 release notes state.

"It is affectionately known as 'the walrus operator' due to its resemblance to the eyes and tusks of a walrus."

In this example, the assignment expression helps avoid calling len() twice:

if (n := len(a)) > 10:

    print(f"List is too long ({n} elements, expected <= 10)")

What’s New In Python 3.8

Download Python 3.8.0 Alpha 1

Microsoft: We want you to learn Python programming language for free

Microsoft has launched a new 44-part series called Python for Beginners on YouTube, consisting of three- to four-minute lessons from two self-described geeks at Microsoft who love programming and teaching in YouTube or  Channel9

The Python for Beginners series is presented by Christopher Harrison, a senior program manager at Microsoft, and Susan Ibach, a business development manager from Microsoft's AI Gaming unit. 

Microsoft has published a page on GitHub containing additional resources, including slides and code samples to help students become better at Python. 

The Developers have a option to interface with machine-learning frameworks like Google-developed TensorFlow, and the Microsoft Cognitive Toolkit (CNTK).