Python Learning Roadmap 2026: Zero to $100K Job in 6 Months

Python learning roadmap
By Abhijeet • • 10 Min Read

Complete Python roadmap: Zero to job-ready in 6 months. Month-by-month plan, best resources, AI/ML focus, project ideas, job prep.

Why Python in 2026?

  • ✅ #1 language for AI/ML
  • ✅ Highest demand in job market
  • ✅ Average salary: $100K+
  • ✅ Easiest to learn
  • ✅ Massive ecosystem

Month 1-2: Fundamentals

Topics:

  • Variables, data types
  • Control flow (if/else, loops)
  • Functions
  • Lists, dictionaries
  • File handling

Resources:

  • Python.org tutorial (free)
  • Codecademy Python course
  • Practice on LeetCode Easy

Month 3: Data Structures & Algorithms

  • Arrays, linked lists
  • Stacks, queues
  • Trees, graphs
  • Sorting algorithms
  • Time complexity

Month 4: Web Development OR Data Science

Path A: Web Development

  • Django/Flask
  • REST APIs
  • Databases (SQL)
  • Authentication

Path B: Data Science

  • NumPy, Pandas
  • Data visualization
  • Statistics basics
  • Jupyter notebooks

Month 5: AI/ML Fundamentals

  • Machine learning basics
  • Scikit-learn
  • TensorFlow/PyTorch intro
  • Build simple ML models

Month 6: Projects & Job Prep

Build 3-5 Projects:

  • Web scraper
  • REST API
  • ML model (prediction)
  • Automation script
  • Portfolio website

Job Preparation:

  • Resume building
  • GitHub portfolio
  • LeetCode practice
  • Mock interviews

Best Free Resources

  • 📚 Python.org documentation
  • 🎥 freeCodeCamp YouTube
  • 💻 LeetCode (practice)
  • 📖 Automate the Boring Stuff (book)
  • 🎓 CS50 Python (Harvard)

Paid Resources (Worth It)

  • Udemy: Python Bootcamp ($15)
  • DataCamp: Data Science ($25/mo)
  • LeetCode Premium ($35/mo)

Job Market Reality

Entry-Level Salaries (2026):

  • 💰 Junior Developer: $60K-$80K
  • 💰 Data Analyst: $70K-$90K
  • 💰 ML Engineer: $90K-$120K
  • 💰 Senior roles: $120K-$200K+

Success Tips

  • ✅ Code every day (consistency)
  • ✅ Build projects, not just tutorials
  • ✅ Join Python communities
  • ✅ Contribute to open source
  • ✅ Network on LinkedIn

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • ❌ Tutorial hell (watching, not doing)
  • ❌ Skipping fundamentals
  • ❌ Not building projects
  • ❌ Ignoring data structures
  • ❌ Waiting to feel "ready"

Final Thoughts

6 months is realistic if you dedicate 2-3 hours daily. Focus on projects over certificates. Build in public. Network actively. The Python job market in 2026 is booming - especially for AI/ML roles. Start today.