How to Install Python as a Beginner

Installing Python is the first step to interacting with Python as a beginner. There are several methods to install Python. In this blog, we will focus on the recommended methods for beginners. These methods are straightforward. You will install Python in a few minutes and start your journey to becoming a world-class programmer.

This blog will teach you how to:

• Check if Python is already on your computer, and check the version.
• Install Python on Windows and macOS computers.

Prerequisites:

You do not need any programming skills to install Python on your computer. All you need are the following:

• A Computer, and
• Internet Connection.

Now, let us get started! 🚀

How to Install Python on a Windows Computer

We will be covering two simple methods to install Python on your windows computer:

1. The Microsofts Store.
2. The Official Installer.

Let's check if there is an existing version of Python on your Windows computer.

How to Check for an existing Python version on Windows

You can use PowerShell to check if Python is already installed on your Windows computer. PowerShell is a command-line application, and it is available on all Windows versions.

To open PowerShell:

1. Press the Windows key.
2. Type "PowerShell."
3. Press the "Enter" key

Once PowerShell is opened, input python -v in the prompt and press the "Enter" key. If the version is less than 3.11.0, the latest version at the time of writing this blog, you will need to upgrade to the newest version.

How to Install Python from Microsoft Store

Installing Python from Microsoft Store is recommended for beginners new to Python. Microsoft Store handles your PATH settings, which prevents you from some issues that may later come up with using Python.

Follow the steps below to install Python from Microsoft Store:

1. Open Microsoft Store App or Web and search for "Python"

Select Python 3.11 or the highest version to start the installation.

2. Installation

Follow the steps below after selecting a version to install.

1. Click Get

2. Wait for the app to download and install on your computer.

Pip and IDLE will also be installed for you. Pip is Python's package manager, which helps you access libraries that originally were not part of Python. IDLE is a short for Integrated Development and Learning Environment. IDLE provides you with the following:

1. Shell to run interactive code.

   

2. Editor to write and save your code base.

How to Install Python from the Official Installer

The official installer provides you with full features of Python. Moreso, unlike Microsofts Store, the official installer offers you more control over the installation.

Follow the steps below to install Python from the official installer on Windows:

1. Open your browser.
2. Go to Python's official site and navigate to the Download page for Windows.
3. Select the latest version.

4. Scroll down and select Windows installer (32-bit) or Windows installer (64-bit)( depending on your computer's processor) to download the installer.

   If you are unsure about your computer's processor, click here to check.

5. Run the installer.

   

   You can configure the installation to your needs, but please don't click "Add python.exe to PATH" unless you understand what it means.

6. Click "Install Now"

Your Python is ready for use! 🚀.

How to Install Python on macOS

Let's check if there is an existing version of Python on your macOS computer.

How to Check for an existing Python version on macOS

1. Open the Terminal.

   To open the terminal, follow these steps:

   1. Press the Cmd + Space buttons.
   2. Type "Terminal"
   3. Press Enter.

2. After opening the Terminal, type "python --version" and press Enter.

Install Python from the Official Installer

The official installer is the most simple method to download Python on macOS. It also includes all necessary packages for developing applications with Python.

Follow the steps below to install Python from the official installer on macOS:

1. Open your browser.
2. Go to Python's official site and navigate to the Download page for macOS.

1. Select the latest version.
2. Scroll down and select macOS 64-bit universal2 installer to download the installer.
3. Run the installer.

4. Keep clicking Continue, then agree with the terms and conditions.

   

5. A window will show you the installation destination and the required space.

6. Click Install to start the installation.

   

7. Close the window when the installer is done, then launch your IDLE.

   

Your Python is ready for use! 🚀.