What is Python?
According to the “Official Documentation” from https://www.python.org/doc/essays/blurb/
Python is an interpreted, object-oriented, high-level programming language with dynamic semantics. Its high-level built in data structures, combined with dynamic typing and dynamic binding, make it very attractive for Rapid Application Development, as well as for use as a scripting or glue language to connect existing components together. Python’s simple, easy to learn syntax emphasizes readability and therefore reduces the cost of program maintenance. Python supports modules and packages, which encourages program modularity and code reuse. The Python interpreter and the extensive standard library are available in source or binary form without charge for all major platforms, and can be freely distributed.
In simple terms, Python is a beginner-friendly programming language designed to be easy to read and write. Because it uses simple, English-like commands, it allows people to build apps and analyze data much faster than other languages. It is free to use, works on almost any computer, and has a massive library of pre-written code so you don’t have to start every project from scratch.
Why is Python Popular?
Python’s “human-first” design uses plain English commands instead of complex symbols or strict formatting rules found in other languages. This makes it so easy to learn that it is now the standard language for schools and beginners, and nearly 80 percent of the Data Science and AI frameworks in present day world are developed using Python.
Installing Python
On the day this Post is being written, the latest stable version of Python is 3.14.2.
Windows Installation
- Download: Visit the official Python Downloads page and click the “Download Python 3.14.2” button.
- Run Installer: Open the downloaded
.exefile. - Crucial Step: Check the box that says “Add python.exe to PATH” before clicking “Install Now”. This allows you to run Python from any command prompt.
- Verify: Open the Command Prompt (
cmd) and typepython --versionto confirm.
MacOS Installation
- Download: Visit the official Python Downloads page and click the “Download Python 3.14.2” button.
- Verify: Open Terminal and type
python3 --version
Linux Installation
- Package Manager: Use your system’s terminal to install the latest version. In Ubuntu Run:
sudo apt updatesudo apt install python3.14. - Verify: Run
python3 --versionin your terminal.
“Hello World!”
We’ll now see how to run your first ever Python script.
Open a text Editor (like Notepad in Windows). Paste the code from the below code block in the file
print("Hello World!")Now save the file (with .py extension) and open a terminal and navigate to the directory where you have your .py script saved. Now run
python3 <file.py> #substitute your file name hereVoila! You’ve just taken your first step into the vast and powerful world of Python. Your journey into coding starts now!