Code-a-pookkalam

🌸 Is it Your First Time Participating in Code-a-Pookkalam? 🌸

If this is your first time participating in Code-a-Pookkalam, welcome! Don’t worry if you’re new to coding or unsure about how to create your own Pookkalam using code — we’re here to help. This guide will walk you through the basics and get you started.

🎨 Use Any Language or Platform

In Code-a-Pookkalam, you are free to use any programming language or platform that you are comfortable with to design your Pookkalam. However, if you are a beginner, we recommend starting with one of these two beginner-friendly options:

1. p5.js (JavaScript)

p5.js is a JavaScript library that makes it easy to create graphics and interactive visuals in your browser. It’s an excellent choice for beginners because:

Why p5.js?

Getting Started with p5.js

  1. Visit the p5.js Website:
    Go to the p5.js website to get familiar with what it is and explore its possibilities.

  2. Learn with Tutorials:
    Head over to the p5.js tutorials to start learning the basics, like drawing shapes, adding colors, and more. 🖍️

  3. Write Code in the Online Editor:
    You don’t need to download any software! You can code directly in the browser. Just visit the p5.js online editor and start coding right away. 💻

    Here’s a simple example to get you started:

    function setup() {
  createCanvas(400, 400);
  background(255);  // Set the background color to white
  ellipse(200, 200, 150, 150);  // Draw a circle
}

2. Python Turtle

What is Python Turtle?

Python Turtle is another beginner-friendly way to create graphics with code. You can use simple commands to make a virtual “turtle” move around the screen and draw shapes, making it perfect for designing pookalam patterns.

Why Python Turtle?

Getting Started with Python Turtle

  1. Use the Python Turtle Online Editor:
    No need to install Python on your computer! Just go to the Python Turtle online editor and start coding in your browser. 🌟

  2. Learn the Basics with Tutorials:
    If you’re new to Python or Turtle, don’t worry! Check out the Python Turtle tutorial to get started with the basics. 📘

  3. Try This Simple Code:
    Here’s a small example that draws a circle:

    import turtle

pookalam = turtle.Turtle()
pookalam.circle(100)  # Draw a circle with a radius of 100 units
turtle.done()

3. Joy

Joy is a tiny creative coding library in Python, made by FOSS United India See how to use Joy: https://github.com/fossunited/joy/blob/main/README.md

Other Languages

You are free to use any language that supports graphical output, such as:

Choose Your Platform and Let Your Creativity Flow! 🎨✨

Whichever platform you choose — p5.js or Python Turtle — creating a virtual pookalam is all about having fun and letting your creativity flow. Don’t worry if you’re a beginner; both platforms are designed to be easy to use, and there are plenty of resources to guide you along the way.

Good luck, and we can’t wait to see your pookalams! 🌸🚀

🔗 Submitting Your Code via GitHub

Once you’ve created your Pookkalam design using the language of your choice, the next step is to submit it. For this competition, submissions are done through GitHub. Don’t worry if you’re new to GitHub — here’s a quick guide to help you get started.

Step 1: Create a GitHub Account

If you don’t already have a GitHub account, head over to GitHub.com and sign up for a free account.

See how: https://youtu.be/QUtk-Uuq9nE?si=ECSPHNIEDmu9IFME

Step 2: Create a New Repository

  1. After logging in, click on the + icon in the top right corner and select New repository.
  2. Name your repository Code-a-Pookkalam-2024.
  3. Choose the repository as Public so that we can access your submission.
  4. Add a brief description like “My Code-a-Pookkalam submission.”
  5. Optionally, initialize the repository with a README.md file.

Step 3: Upload Your Code

  1. If you are familiar with Git, you can use git commands to push your code to GitHub.
  2. Alternatively, you can manually upload your code by:
    • Clicking on Add file in your repository.
    • Selecting Upload files and then dragging your code and any images into the file uploader.
  3. Don’t forget to include a screenshot of your final output in your repository.

See how: https://youtu.be/P75e8DgOxn8?si=FK7ptPAWEaWELMvu

Once your code is uploaded to GitHub, submit the link to your repository using the form provided on the competition page.

Example format for the link:

https://github.com/YourUsername/Code-a-Pookkalam-2024

💡 Need Help?

If you’re stuck or need help getting started with coding, feel free to reach out to the TinkerHub RIT community for assistance. We’re here to support you!

We hope you have a great time participating in Code-a-Pookkalam. Whether you’re a seasoned coder or a beginner, this competition is all about having fun and celebrating creativity. Happy coding!