Getting Started with Python

Introduction:

Welcome to the amazing world of Python programming! To start this thrilling coding journey, we need to set up our development environment with a Python interpreter and an Integrated Development Environment (IDE). In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to prepare your machine for Python programming using Visual Studio Code, a lightweight yet powerful IDE.

The Interpreter, IDE and Python Environment:

The Python interpreter is like a language translator for our code. It takes our human-readable Python code and turns it into machine-readable instructions. It also checks for errors, ensuring our code is ready to run.

The Integrated Development Environment (IDE) is our coding headquarters. It provides a set of powerful tools for coding, editing, debugging, and more. With a friendly interface, the IDE brings all the essential development utilities together, making our coding adventure smoother and more enjoyable.

The Python environment consists of the Python interpreter and all the necessary tools to run our Python programs. It allows us to create Python applications and execute them smoothly.

Now, let's start setting up!

Downloading and Installing Python and Visual Studio Code:

1. Downloading Python:

Visit the official Python website (python.org).
Choose the latest version of Python for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).
Download the installer and save it on your computer.

2. Installing Python:

Run the downloaded installer.
Follow the on-screen instructions, selecting the desired installation options.
Click "Install" and let the installer complete the process.

3. Downloading Visual Studio Code:

Visit the official Visual Studio Code website (code.visualstudio.com).
Choose the version compatible with your operating system.
Download the installer and save it on your computer.

4. Installing Visual Studio Code:

Run the downloaded installer.
Follow the on-screen instructions to install Visual Studio Code on your machine.
Launch Visual Studio Code after the installation is complete.

Setting Up Visual Studio Code for Python:

1. Installing the Python Extension Pack:

Launch Visual Studio Code.
Go to the Extensions view by clicking on the Extensions icon in the Activity Bar on the side of the window.
Search for 'Python' and install the official Python extension from Microsoft.

This extension provides all the necessary tools and features to make Python development a breeze.

Creating Your First Python Program:

1. Creating a new Python folder:

Click 'Open Folder' from the 'Explorer'.
Then Select folder.

2. Creating a new Python file:

Click 'File' > 'New File' from the menu bar.
Save the file with a .py extension.

3. Writing and Running Your First Python Code:

In the new file, write a simple program:

print("Hello, World!")

Save the file (Ctrl + S or go to "File" > "Save").
To run your program, right-click anywhere in your code editor and select 'Run Python File in Terminal'.

NOTE: Don't worry if you don't understand the code above. We'll dive deeper into it in the subsequent lessons. For now, focus on setting up your environment and running the code. (alert-success)

Conclusion:

Congratulations! You've successfully set up your Python development environment using Python and Visual Studio Code. You're now ready to write, run, and explore the world of Python programming. This is just the beginning of an exciting adventure, where you'll learn to build amazing applications and solve real-world problems with the power of Python. Happy coding!