Greetings flesh creatures... advice?! (Maya / Python)

Hey all, handy forum here thought I should sign up!

I was hoping for some advice on where to start with Python scripting for Maya. I’m trying to expand my technical skills by learning Python. I know most of Maya’s functions fairly well an have primarily worked as a modeler / texture / rigging artist. However, I really want to get into scripting.

I have worked with MEL and all through the Hypershade but haven’t really written any solid tools.

Knowing some MEL and HTML I understand some concepts of programming however I could really use some advice for some practical training. Maybe a step based tutorial, great books, good advice for practicing a language (for example when learning Spanish I like to watch movies with Spanish subtitles on!) etc…Is there any cool programs to test your knowledge and force you to learn / practice? I basically want to learn to rattle Maya from the inside out using Python.

Any advice to help me get started would be greatly appreciated!

Howdy…i would recommend you start with this thread, wealth of knowledge here:

http://tech-artists.org/forum/showthread.php?t=25

awesome resource! thanks!