Python is a popular programming language widely used for various applications like web development, data analysis, and artificial intelligence.

How to Install Python

• Step 1: Download Python from the official website: Python Downloads.
• Step 2: Run the downloaded installer and make sure to check the option "Add Python to PATH" before clicking install.
• Step 3: Verify the installation by opening the command prompt and typing python --version. It should display the installed Python version.
• Step 4: Set the environment variable by navigating to Control Panel -> System -> Advanced System Settings -> Environment Variables. Under 'System variables,' find and edit the 'Path' variable. Add the path to where Python is installed (e.g., C:\Python39).

Popular IDEs for Python

You can write Python code in various Integrated Development Environments (IDEs). Here are some popular options:

1. Command Line (CMD/Terminal)

• To run Python on the command line, open CMD (Windows) or Terminal (macOS/Linux), and type python to enter the Python shell.
• You can execute a Python script by navigating to its directory and running python script_name.py.

2. Visual Studio Code (VSCode)

• Download VSCode from the official website: VSCode Downloads.
• Install the Python Extension from the VSCode Marketplace to enable Python support.
• Create a new file with the extension .py, write your code, and run it using the integrated terminal or by clicking the 'Run' button.

3. PyCharm

• Download PyCharm from the official website: PyCharm Downloads.
• Choose the Community Edition for free or the Professional version for more features.
• After installation, create a new Python project, write your code, and run it using the integrated run button.

How to Run a Python Program

• Open any of the above IDEs or the command line.
• Create a Python file (e.g., hello.py) with your code.
• Run the script by executing python hello.py in the terminal/command line or using the IDE’s run button.

Code Example

# Verify Python installation
print("Python is successfully installed!")