Python is a high-level, interpreted programming language known for its simplicity, readability, and versatility. It was created by Guido van Rossum and first released in 1991. Python has a clear and readable syntax that allows developers to express concepts in fewer lines of code compared to other languages.
Key features of Python include:
- Readability and Simplicity: Python emphasizes code readability and allows developers to write clear, concise, and easy-to-understand code.
- Interpreted Language: Python code is executed line by line, which allows for easier debugging and quicker development cycles.
- Dynamic Typing: Python automatically infers the type of a variable during runtime, reducing the need for explicit type declarations.
- Extensive Standard Library: Python comes with a rich standard library that provides many modules and packages to perform various tasks, from file handling and networking to web development and data analysis.
- Large Ecosystem: Python has a large community and a vast ecosystem of third-party libraries and frameworks that cater to a wide range of applications such as web development, data science, machine learning, artificial intelligence, and more.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: Python is available on various platforms such as Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it easy to develop and deploy applications across different environments.
- Support for Multiple Programming Paradigms: Python supports various programming paradigms, including procedural, object-oriented, and functional programming.
- Active Community: Python has a large, active community of developers who contribute to its development, provide support, and create tutorials, libraries, and tools.
Installing Python on Windows 10 is a straightforward process. Follow the steps below to install Python.
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Download Python:
- Visit the official Python website: https://www.python.org/.
- Navigate to the "Downloads" section.
- Choose the latest stable release of Python that is compatible with your version of Windows. The website will usually detect your operating system automatically and suggest the correct version.
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Run the Installer:
- Once the installer file is downloaded, locate the file in your Downloads folder and double-click on it to run the installer.
- Make sure to check the box that says "Add Python to PATH" before you proceed. This is important for allowing you to use Python from the command prompt or PowerShell.
- Choose either "Install Now" to proceed with the default installation options, or select "Customize installation" for advanced options such as changing the installation directory.
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Complete the Installation:
- The installer will download and install Python along with essential packages and tools.
- Once the installation is complete, you may be prompted to disable the "Maximize" option.
- Click "Close" to exit the installer.
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Verify the Installation:
- Open the Command Prompt or PowerShell.
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Type
python --versionorpython -Vand press Enter. - If Python was installed correctly, you should see the version number of Python displayed.
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Test Python:
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You can also test
Pythonby typing python in the command prompt. - This should start the Python interactive interpreter, where you can execute Python code interactively.
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To exit the interpreter, type
exit()or use the keyboard shortcutCtrl + Zand then press Enter.
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You can also test
You have now successfully installed Python on your Windows 10 machine! You can begin writing Python scripts and exploring the language.
