Why Python Loops Are "Slow": A Gentle Introduction to Interpretation, Bytecode, and Fast Code

Python loops are "slow", is a phrase every python programmer has heard. For better or worse, it is partially true. This talk breaks down how Python executes code and why that creates overhead, especially in tight loops. I'll also explore how tools like NumPy, SIMD, and JIT compilation achieve massive speedups by working with the CPU instead of against it.

You should walk away from this talk with more insight into why loops are slow, how python code is executed at a high level, and what you should do about it if anything.