Python Introduction
Python is a widely used, high-level programming language known for its
simplicity and versatility. It was created by Guido van Rossum and
officially released in 1991. Python is designed to be easy to read
and write, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced
developers.
Python is commonly used in areas such as:
- Web development (server-side applications)
- Software and application development
- Data analysis, mathematics, and scientific computing
- System scripting and automation
What Can Python Do?
Python is a powerful, multi-purpose language capable of handling a wide
range of tasks:
- It can be used on servers to build robust web applications.
- It integrates seamlessly with other software to create automated workflows.
- Python can connect to databases, as well as read, write, and modify files.
- It is widely used in big data processing, machine learning, and complex mathematical computations.
- Python supports rapid prototyping and is equally suitable for building production-ready applications.
Why Choose Python?
Python is one of the most preferred programming languages due to its many
advantages:
- It runs on multiple platforms such as Windows, macOS, Linux, and Raspberry Pi.
- Its syntax is clean and readable, closely resembling the English language.
- Developers can write efficient programs using fewer lines of code compared to many other languages.
- Python uses an interpreter-based execution model, allowing code to run immediately—ideal for quick testing and prototyping.
- It supports multiple programming paradigms, including procedural, object-oriented, and functional programming.
Python Installation Steps for Windows, Linux, and macOS
Installing Python is a simple process across all major operating systems.
Below are clear, step-by-step instructions for Windows, Linux, and macOS
users.
Python Installation on Windows
1.Visit the official Python website: python.org
2. Click Downloads → Select Windows
3. Download the latest Python 3.x installer
4. Run the installer ⚠️ Important: Check the option “Add Python to
PATH”
5. Click Install Now
6. Wait for the installation to complete
Verify Installation
Open Command Prompt
Command:
python --version
Python Installation on Linux (Ubuntu/Debian)
Most Linux distributions come with Python pre-installed.
1. Open the Terminal
2. Update package list:
Command:
sudo apt update
3. Install Python:
Command:
sudo apt install python3
4. (Optional) Install pip:
Command:
sudo apt install python3-pip
Verify Installation
Command:
python3 --version
Python Installation on macOS
Method 1: Using Official Installer
1. Go to python.org
2. Click Downloads → macOS
3. Download the latest installer
4. Run the .pkg file and follow the instructions
Method 2: Using Homebrew (Recommended)
1. Install Homebrew (if not installed):
Command:
/bin/bash -c "$(curl -fsSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Homebrew/install/HEAD/install.sh)"
2.Install Python:
Command:
brew install python
Verify Installation
Command:
python3 --version
Python Quickstart
Python is an interpreted programming language, which means the code you
write is executed directly by the Python interpreter. As a developer, you
create Python files with the .py extension using any text editor, and then
run them through the interpreter to see the output.
To get started, let’s create our first Python program named hello.py .
You can write this file using any text editor or code editor of your
choice. This simple example will help you understand how Python programs
are written and executed.
Program:
hello world
Try it Yourself
