Python Setup

Python, created by Guido van Rossum in 1991, is a widely used programming language praised for its simplicity, readability, and versatility. Its clean syntax makes it easier to read and write code compared to languages like C, C++, or Rust.

Considerations

There are many ways to install Python, and I recommend using the uv package manager for the best experience. Other options like conda, pyenv, or the official installers from Python.org are reliable and effective but may become limiting as your Python expertise grows.

Just know that uv will help you with tasks like:

• Installing specific Python versions
• Creating and managing virtual environments
• Installing and managing Python packages and tools
• Replacing several tools like conda, pyenv, pip, poetry, virtualenv, and more

Tip

For more details or help with uv, visit the official documentation at docs.astral.sh/uv.

Installing Python with uv

1. Install uv

   brew install uv

2. Update your shell PATH

   uv tool update-shell

   Note

   You may need to restart your terminal.

3. Install Python

   uv python install

Running Python Code

uv run my_python_script.py

Launching the Python Interpreter

uv run python

Launching the IPython Interpreter

IPython is a powerful interactive Python shell that provides a rich environment for data exploration, experimentation, and visualisation. It offers features like code completion, syntax highlighting, and the ability to execute code line by line. It is great for interactive learning and experimentation.

1. Install IPython

   uv tool install ipython --with pip

2. Launch the IPython Interpreter

   ipython

Launching the JupyterLab

JupyterLab is a web application for creating interactive documents that combine code, text, equations, and rich visuals. It provides Python learners with an intuitive environment for coding and experimentation.

1. Install JupyterLab

   uv tool install jupyterlab

2. Launch JupyterLab

   jupyter-lab

Working on projects

Create a new Python project

uv init hello-world

Run the hello-world main.py example

uv run ./hello-world/main.py

uv will create the following files

• Directoryhello-world

  • .git
  • Directory.venv

    • bin
    • lib
    • pyvenv.cfg
  • .gitignore
  • main.py
  • pyproject.toml
  • README.md
  • uv.lock

Using Python environments

Create a virtual environment at .venv

uv venv

You can create a virtual environment with a specific Python version

uv venv --python 3.13

Activate the virtual environment

source .venv/bin/activate

Install a package in the virtual environment

uv pip install ...

List all installed packages in the virtual environment

 uv pip list

Exit the virtual environment

deactivate