Installing Python 3: A Comprehensive Guide

The initial step is to download the latest version of Python 3 from the official website: Python Downloads. Choose the appropriate version for your operating system (Windows, macOS, or Linux).

Windows Installation

Checking Your Python Version on Windows

1. Open a command-line application like PowerShell (you can search for it in the Start menu).
2. Type `python` and press Enter.
3. If Python is already installed, you'll see a response with the version number (e.g., Python 3.9.6).
4. If you don't see this, proceed to install Python.

macOS Installation

Checking Your Python Version on macOS

1. Open a terminal.
2. Type `python` or `python3` and press Enter.
3. If Python is already installed, you'll see the version number.
4. If not, proceed to install Python.

Linux Installation

Checking Your Python Version on Linux

1. Open a terminal.
2. Type `python3` and press Enter.
3. If Python 3 is installed, you'll see the version number.
4. If not, proceed to install Python.

Visual Studio Code

Visual Studio Code (VSCode) is a powerful and versatile code editor developed by Microsoft. It supports a wide range of programming languages and offers numerous extensions to enhance its functionality. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to get started with VSCode.

Begin by downloading VSCode from Microsoft's website. Select the download based on your operating system.

Windows

1. Download the 64-bit or 32-bit files depending on your OS.
2. Once the download is complete, open the file to install it.
3. Use the default directory location when prompted where to install.
4. On the Select Additional Tasks view, make sure the **Add to Path** is selected.
5. Click Next and the installer will begin.
6. Once complete, load the application and you should see something similar to this:

Mac

1. Download the application based on the chipset you have. M1 macs use Apple Silicon and older versions use Intel. If you are not sure just choose the Universal option.
2. Once the download has been completed, go to the folder where the file was downloaded (the default is normally the Downloads folder).
3. Double click the zip file to extract the contents.
4. Drag and drop the .app file to the Applications link in the File Explorer.
5. Open the app.

Python Extension

VSCode offers a Python extension from its Extension Marketplace. It can be added directly from the IDE by completing the following steps:

1. Click on the Extensions icon.
2. In the search bar, type in Python. A few different extensions will return but the one you want is the extension provided by Microsoft.
3. Click the install button. You may need to restart your IDE after the installation is complete.

Now you're all set to embark on your Python journey! Whether you're writing scripts, building web applications, or diving into data science, Python awaits your creativity.