Python Installation

A correct installation prevents most beginner problems. Your goal is simple: when you type python in the terminal, it runs Python 3.

Step 1: Install Python

Download Python from the official Python website and install it.

Windows (important details)

• Run the installer
• Check “Add Python to PATH”
• Install for “All Users” if possible

Why PATH matters:
PATH allows your system to find Python when you type python in the terminal.

macOS

• Run the installer package
• After install, verify in Terminal
• Some systems require using python3 instead of python

Linux

• Python 3 may already be installed
• If not, install using your package manager

Step 2: Verify your version

Run:

python --version

Expected output example:

Python 3.12.0

If python does not work, try:

python3 --version

Step 3: Check that pip works

pip installs packages.

pip --version

If pip is missing, Python installation may be incomplete.

Step 4: VS Code setup (clean beginner setup)

• Install VS Code
• Install the Python extension
• Choose the correct interpreter inside VS Code

Step 5: Run a test file

Create test.py:

print("Python setup is working.")

Run:

python test.py

Expected output:

Python setup is working.

Setup pipeline (the reason steps matter)

flowchart LR
  A[Install Python] --> B[Verify python command]
  B --> C[Verify pip]
  C --> D[Install VS Code + extension]
  D --> E[Run test.py]

Common installation problems (and the exact reason)

• python not found: PATH not added
• pip not found: incomplete installation
• VS Code runs wrong Python: interpreter not selected

When you fix the root cause, the same issues do not return.

In the next lesson, you will learn variables, how Python stores information, and how to name your variables like a professional.