Install Python

  • A simple and complete guide to installing Python on your computer. Learn download steps, PATH configuration, and how to verify your installation and run Python for the first time.


  • Installing Python on Windows and macOS :

    Python must be installed on your computer before you can begin writing and running programs. Most macOS and Linux systems already have Python installed, but it is recommended to install the latest version manually.
    Below are complete installation instructions for both Windows and macOS.

    ⭐ Installing Python on Windows

    🔹 Step-by-Step Guide

    1️⃣ Visit the Official Python Website

    Open any web browser and go to the official Python download page:
    👉 https://www.python.org/downloads/

    2️⃣ Download the Python Installer

    Click on “Download Python 3.x.x for Windows” to get the latest stable version.

    3️⃣ Run the Installer

    Locate the downloaded .exe file and double-click it to start the installation process.

    4️⃣ Important Setup Option

    ✅ Select “Add Python 3.x to PATH”
    This ensures Python can be accessed directly from the Command Prompt (CMD).

    5️⃣ Choose Installation Type

    • Install Now → Best option for beginners

    • Customize Installation → Optional (select pip, documentation, or installation location)

    6️⃣ Complete the Installation

    Wait until the installation finishes, then click Close.


Open Command Prompt:

Win + R → cmd → Enter

python --version
Note: If Python is installed correctly, the installed version will be displayed.

🔹 If Multiple Python Versions Exist

py -V
  • 🔹 Open IDLE / Optional VS Code Setup

    🟢 IDLE (Default Python Editor)

    • Open the Start Menu

    • Search for IDLE (Python 3.x)

    • Click to launch the Python editor

    🔵 Visual Studio Code (Recommended Editor)

    • Download and install Visual Studio Code from Microsoft

    • Open VS Code

    • Install the Python extension by Microsoft

    • Press Ctrl + Shift + P

    • Select Python: Select Interpreter

    • Choose your installed Python 3.x version

  • Installing Python on macOS

    🔹 Download Source

    • Visit the official Python website: https://www.python.org

    • Navigate to Downloads → macOS

    • Download the official .pkg installer (CPython build)

    🔹 Graphical Installation (Beginner-Friendly)

    • Double-click the downloaded .pkg file to start the installer

    • Follow the on-screen installation instructions

    • After installation, Python is typically located at:
      /usr/local/bin/python3

🔹 Verify Installation (Terminal)

Open Terminal and run:

python3 --version
  • 🔹 VS Code / IDLE on macOS

    IDLE

    Installed automatically. Open from Finder or run:


idle3
  • VS Code

    Same steps as Windows:

    • Install Python extension

    • Select Python interpreter

  • ⭐ Quick Reference Commands

🔹 Windows

python --version
py -V

🔹 macOS

python3 --version
pip3 --version