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Python
Introduction to Python
Python Basics
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Python Syntax
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Python Comments
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Python Variables
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Python Data Types
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Python Casting
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Python I/O
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Python Operators
Cotrol Structures
Data Structures
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Python Strings
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Python Lists
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Python Tuples
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Python Dictionaries
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Python Sets
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Python Arrays
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Python Bytes and Bytearray
Date and Time
Functions and Module
File Handling
Python OOP
Advanced Concepts
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Python Scope
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Python Modules
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Python JSON
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Python RegEx
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Python PIP
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Python Try...Except
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Python String Formatting
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Python User Input
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Python VirtualEnv
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Python Math
Python DSA
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Python DSA
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Lists and Arrays
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Python Stacks
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Python Queues
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Linked Lists
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Python Hash Tables
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Python Trees
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Python Binary Trees
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Binary Search Trees
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Python AVL Trees
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Python Graphs
Searching Algorithms
Sorting Algorithms
Python Install
Installing Python is the first practical step before you begin writing programs. The process is simple, but it’s important to set it up correctly so your development environment works smoothly. In this chapter, you’ll learn how to download Python, install it on different operating systems, check whether it’s installed properly, and set up the basic tools you need to start coding. This guide keeps things clear and beginner-friendly so you can get Python running without confusion.
What You Need Before Installation?
Before you install Python, it helps to know what you are getting. The official Python installer comes with the interpreter, the standard library and a package manager called pip. These three things are enough to start building basic and advanced programs. You don’t need additional software at this stage.
Python works on Windows, macOS and Linux. Each system has a slightly different installation process, but the end result is the same. Make sure you have internet access, a little space on your system and permission to install software.
Downloading Python From the Official Website
The safest and recommended way to download Python is from the official website python.org. When you open the site, you’ll see a button showing the latest version. This version is the most stable one and is suitable for learning and development.
When you click the download button, the website automatically selects the correct version based on your operating system. You don’t need to choose anything manually unless you are looking for an older version. For beginners, always use the latest stable version because it contains updated features and security fixes.
Installing Python on Windows
Windows users usually need to follow a few extra steps, but the process is still simple.
Step 1: Run the Installer
After downloading, double-click the installer file. The setup window opens with a few options.
Step 2: Select “Add Python to PATH”
This step is extremely important. At the bottom of the installer window, you will see a checkbox labeled “Add Python to PATH.” Make sure you tick this box. If you skip this, Python commands may not work in the command prompt.
Step 3: Choose “Install Now”
Click “Install Now.” The installer sets up Python, pip and IDLE automatically. You don’t need to customize anything unless you already understand the advanced options.
Step 4: Wait for Installation
The installer takes a few moments. Once it finishes, you’ll see a screen confirming that Python is installed successfully.
Step 5: Verify Installation
Open Command Prompt and type:
python --version
If installation is correct, you’ll see the version number. You can also type:
pip --version
This confirms that Python’s package installer is also ready to use.
Installing Python on macOS
Mac users have a cleaner installation process because Python integrates well with the system.
Step 1: Download the macOS Installer
Go to python.org and download the macOS installation package. It usually comes in a .pkg format.
Step 2: Open the Installer
Double-click the file. A standard installation wizard appears with clear steps.
Step 3: Follow the On-Screen Instructions
Click “Continue,” choose the installation location and proceed. macOS handles most things in the background.
Step 4: Verify Installation
Open Terminal and type:
python3 --version
On macOS, Python usually runs with the command python3 instead of python.
You can also check pip using:
pip3 --version
If both work, Python is ready.
Installing Python on Linux
Most Linux distributions come with Python pre-installed because many system tools depend on it. Still, you may need to install or update Python manually.
Step 1: Open the Terminal
Use your system’s terminal application.
Step 2: Install Python Using Package Manager
For Ubuntu or Debian-based systems:
sudo apt install python3
For Fedora:
sudo dnf install python3
For Arch Linux:
sudo pacman -S python
Step 3: Verify Installation
Use:
python3 --version
Linux also uses python3 as the command name for modern versions.
Checking if Python is Installed Correctly
Regardless of your operating system, verifying installation is important. The version command is the first test, but you can also open the Python interactive shell.
In the terminal or command prompt, type:
python
or on macOS/Linux:
python3
If Python is installed, you will see something like:
>>>
This symbol is called the Python prompt. It means Python is ready to execute commands. You can type:
print("Hello")
If the output appears, everything is working.
To exit the Python prompt, type:
exit()
or press Ctrl + Z on Windows or Ctrl + D on macOS/Linux.
Installing Pip and Using It
Pip usually installs automatically with Python. Pip allows you to download external libraries. These libraries extend Python’s abilities, letting you work with data, build applications or handle automation.
To test it, type:
pip install requests
If it installs successfully, pip is working. You can uninstall packages easily too:
pip uninstall requests
Using pip is a core part of working with Python, especially as you start learning advanced subjects.
Setting Environment Variables (If Needed)
Most systems configure PATH automatically, but sometimes Windows may need manual setup. PATH allows your terminal to recognize Python commands.
If you ever get messages like “python is not recognized,” you need to fix PATH settings. This process involves adding the folder where Python is installed to the system environment variables. If the installer was allowed to check “Add Python to PATH,” you don’t need to do this manually.
Updating Python
Python receives updates regularly. To check your current version, run the version command. If you want a newer version, simply download the new installer from python.org and run it. Your existing files remain safe.
Linux distributions can update Python through their package manager. macOS and Windows users should reinstall the latest version from the official website.
Summary of the Tutorial
Installing Python is the first step toward becoming a Python programmer. The process begins with downloading the installer from python.org and setting it up according to your operating system. Windows requires selecting “Add Python to PATH,” while macOS and Linux handle most configurations automatically. After installation, verifying with simple commands like python --version and testing pip ensures everything is working. Once Python is installed correctly, you’re ready to write your first program and start exploring the language.
Practice Questions
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Why is it recommended to download Python only from the official website, and what components come bundled with the Python installer?
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What is the purpose of the “Add Python to PATH” option during Windows installation, and what problems can occur if it is not selected?
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How does the installation process differ between Windows, macOS and Linux systems?
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What commands can you use to verify that Python and pip are installed correctly on different operating systems?
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Why is pip an important part of the Python setup, and how does it help developers during the development process?
Try a Short Quiz.
No quizzes available.
Python
Introduction to Python
Python Basics
-
Python Syntax
-
Python Comments
-
Python Variables
-
Python Data Types
-
Python Casting
-
Python I/O
-
Python Operators
Cotrol Structures
Data Structures
-
Python Strings
-
Python Lists
-
Python Tuples
-
Python Dictionaries
-
Python Sets
-
Python Arrays
-
Python Bytes and Bytearray
Date and Time
Functions and Module
File Handling
Python OOP
Advanced Concepts
-
Python Scope
-
Python Modules
-
Python JSON
-
Python RegEx
-
Python PIP
-
Python Try...Except
-
Python String Formatting
-
Python User Input
-
Python VirtualEnv
-
Python Math
Python DSA
-
Python DSA
-
Lists and Arrays
-
Python Stacks
-
Python Queues
-
Linked Lists
-
Python Hash Tables
-
Python Trees
-
Python Binary Trees
-
Binary Search Trees
-
Python AVL Trees
-
Python Graphs
Searching Algorithms
Sorting Algorithms
