Never Have I Ever Installed a Programming Language (I Just Did), Have You? How To Install Python and PyCharm.

In the ever changing world of software development, transitioning from frontend to backend can be quite of a confusing experience. As an ex-frontend developer, I can attest to the comfort of working within the confines of Visual Studio Code (VSCode) and dealing primarily with file extensions like .html, .js, and .sass. However, my recent quest into backend development, specifically with Python, uncovered a new layer of intricacies that has left me quite puzzled.

The Uncharted Territory:

I assume that installing a programming language is unnecessary and it is a shared sentiment among frontend developers. The familiarity with VSCode and the accustomed file extensions has seemed to cover the entirety of our coding experience. Little did I anticipate the shift as I delved into a crash course on Python, eagerly awaiting instructions akin to 'Open your VSCode and...'.

Python's Unique Demands:

To my surprise, the tutorial took an unexpected turn, steering me away from VSCode. Instead, the instructor urged, 'Go to your browser and visit www.python...'. The revelation that Python necessitated its installation posed a unique challenge to what I had initially thought. As a frontend-focused individual, the idea of installing a programming language itself was a novel concept.

The IDE Conundrum:

Continuing my exploration into Python, I encountered yet another revelation – the existence of an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) dedicated solely to Python: PyCharm. This specialized IDE, designed exclusively for Python, demanded a separate installation. The idea of an IDE tailored for a specific language piqued my interest, prompting me to question the necessity of such specialization.

A Peek into PyCharm:

The realization that Python developers often opt for PyCharm as their preferred coding environment prompted me to explore its features. It became apparent that PyCharm offers an integrated, efficient, and language-specific development experience, which could potentially enhance productivity for those working extensively with Python.

I’ll be sharing below how to install both the language, Python, and it’s IDE, PyCharm.

How to Install Python

1. Visit www.python.org

2. Hover on Downloads on the status bar listed with About, Documentation, etc. A dropdown will appear and you will see a button to with the latest version of python on it. It also states the operating system installed in your PC.

3. Click that button and the download action will begin.

4. After the download has been completed, check your download folder in your PC for the installation file and click it.

5. A pop-up window will appear and you will see the install button. Click it.

6. A number of checkboxes will appear, read them and select the one which best suits you but a general box you must check is the 'Add to PATH' box

7. Grant access to the file to make changes to your PC.

8. Python has been successfully installed.

How to Install PyCharm

1. Visit www.jetbrains.com/pycharm/download

2. There are two versions- PyCharm Professional and PyCharm Community Edition

3. Download the Community Edition (it's free!). PyCharm Professional is the paid version/edition.

4. After downloading, the downloaded file will be available for a quick installation.

5. Accept the administrator’s permissions and PyCharm is ready to take and run your Python codes!

By following these steps, you'll have both Python and PyCharm ready for your journey(backend, data analysis, ML, etc) without the hassle of watching an entire tutorial. I hope this guide makes the installation smoother for you.

See you in another article of mine👋🏾,

Sincerely, Raaymii.