After installing Python, the next step is learning how to run Python programs. Python code can be executed interactively through the Python interpreter or by running Python script files.

Running Python in Interactive Mode

The Python interpreter allows you to execute Python code line by line, making it ideal for learning, testing, and experimenting.

Windows

Open Command Prompt and run:

python
            

or

py
            

macOS and Linux

Open Terminal and run:

python3
            

You should see output similar to:

Python 3.x.x (default, ...) >>>

Now you can enter Python commands directly:

print("Hello, World!")
            

Output:

Hello, World!

To exit the interpreter:

exit()
            

Running a Python Script File

For larger programs, it's common to write code in a file with a .py extension.

Step 1: Create a Python File

Create a file named:

hello.py
            

Add the following code:

print("Hello, World!")
            

Save the file.

Step 2: Open a Terminal or Command Prompt

Navigate to the folder containing your Python file.

Example:

cd path/to/your/project
            

Step 3: Run the Script

Windows

python hello.py
            

or

py hello.py
            

macOS and Linux

Output:

Hello, World!

Running Python from an IDE

Many developers use Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) or code editors to write and run Python programs.

Popular options include:

• Visual Studio Code (VS Code)
• PyCharm
• Spyder
• Jupyter Notebook

Most IDEs provide a Run button that executes your Python script without needing to use the command line.

Common Errors

Python Command Not Found

If you see an error indicating that Python is not recognized, verify that Python is installed correctly and added to your system's PATH.

File Not Found

Ensure you are running the command from the directory where your Python file is located, or provide the full file path.