How to Install Python

If you intend to use our Python courses with a code editor like Python's built-in IDLE editor, Visual Studio Code, Anaconda, Spyder, or something else, you will need to first install the Python runtime to your local computer. This short article will cover how to do this for Windows.

Download and Install Python

1. Head to the Python website's download page: https://www.python.org/downloads/

2. Download a compatible version. Note that this may vary by course depending on the Python libraries used in the course. We recommend reviewing the course's information to determine the appropriate version. If in doubt, installing the latest version of Python should be fine.

 

3. We now need to install Python. Choose the section relevant to your operating system to proceed.

Windows Installation

If you're installing Python on Windows 10/11, open the executable (.exe) file downloaded to your computer and follow the on-screen installation prompts. During installation, make sure to click on the checkbox to Add Python to PATH.

Mac Installation

For MacOS, simply open the package file downloaded to your computer and follow the on-screen instructions.

Verifying Installation

Once the installation finishes, we'll want to verify that Python is properly installed. To do so, follow the steps below:

1. Start the Python IDLE application by locating the appropriate app in your options:

2. Create a new file by going to File > New File:

3. In the new file, enter the following code into the editor:

print("Hello world")

4. Save the Python file
5. Select Run > Run Module from the top menu, or hit F5.

5. If Python is installed correctly, a new window should pop up with our "Hello world" message printed!

Note for simpler Python courses, Python IDLE can be used to work through the course. However, for those looking for professional development tools or working on more in-depth Python code, we recommend downloading a code editor such as Visual Studio Code.

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