Running Python Code - Part 04

Hello and welcome to the Python Chronicles! In this session, we'll look at the Python interpreter, a powerful tool that allows us to run Python code. Understanding how the interpreter works and how to run Python code is useful for application development and testing. Don't worry if you're new to programming; we'll explain everything clearly. So, let's get started and learn about the Python interpreter and how to run Python code!

What is the Python Interpreter?

The Python interpreter is a program that can read and execute Python code. It is useful for interpreting the instructions written in Python and translating them into actions that the computer can understand. The interpreter acts as an translator between the programmer and the computer, executing the code line by line.

Running Python Code:

To run Python code, we need to follow these few steps.

Step 1: Writing Python Code:

We must first write Python code before we run it! Python code is stored in plain text files with the extension ”.py”. You can write your code in any text editor, such as Notepad, Sublime Text, or Visual Studio Code. It is up to you.

Step 2: Creating a Python File:

Open your text editor and create a new file. Save the file with a meaningful name and a “.py” extension. For example, hello_world.py.

Step 3: Writing Your First Python Program:

Let's start with a simple code to print "Hello, World!" to the console. In your Python file, type the following code:

Step 4: Saving the Python File:

After writing the code, save the file and make sure to save it in a location where you can easily locate it later.

Step 5: Opening the Command Prompt or Terminal:

We must use the command prompt on Windows or the terminal on macOS and Linux to run Python code. Let's give it a shot. 

Windows:

• Press the Windows key.
• Type "Command Prompt" or "cmd".
• Click on the "Command Prompt"  to open it.

macOS:

• Press Command + Spacebar to open Spotlight.
• Type "Terminal".
• Click on the "Terminal" application to open it.

Linux:

• Press Ctrl + Alt + T to open the terminal.

Step 6: Locating the Python File:

In the command prompt or terminal, we need to navigate to the location where the Python file is saved. Use the cd command to change directories. For example, if your file is saved on the desktop, type:

Step 7: Running the Python Program:

Now, we are ready to run our Python program. In the command prompt or terminal, type the following command:

Replace my_program.py with the name of your Python file.

Step 8: Viewing the Output:

After entering the command, the Python interpreter will execute your code. If everything runs well, you should see the output "Hello, World!" printed on the screen.

Congratulations! You have completed your first Python program!

Conclusion

We learned about the Python interpreter and how to run Python code in this lesson. We headed over how to write a Python program, save it in a file, open the command prompt or terminal, navigate to the file's location, and run the program with the python command.

Running Python code is a key ability to have in your programming journey. As you progress, you'll come across new concepts and techniques that will help you expand your Python knowledge. Continue to practice, experiment, and explore all the possibilities that Python provides. Have fun with your coding adventures!