Getting Started with Python
Python can be run in 3 different ways and their features and who might consider using them are tabulated below.
| Environment | Description | Examples | Use Cases |
|---|---|---|---|
| Text Editors | Platforms to write any form of textual data (of many file types) that can be customized with plugins to add functionality. | Sublime Text, Atom | Useful for lightweight python programming or scripting without the need to install any heavy software. |
| Integrated Development Environment (IDE) | Development environment designed specifically to run python code. These are mostly larger programs with additional functionality geared towards python development. They are often offered as a Freemium option. | PyCharm IDE, Spyder IDE | Useful for hardcore python development and when additional features are required to ease the process of development. |
| Notebook Environment | Platforms that are well suited for learning python that support in-line markdown notes. These are not regular .py files. But they support input and output one after the other. | Jupyter | Useful in visualizing and learning python in the same environment. It supports sharing of these notebooks with ease. |
Once python is installed, check if python is properly configured by checking the python version with the following command.
python
python -Vtxt
Python 3.11.3Now, Python is up and running and ready to change the world. But before changing the world, here's a customary Hello World example in python.
Hello World Example
python
print("Hello World")txt
Hello World