How to run Python file in cmd?

Running Python Files in Command Prompt: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

Running Python files in the command prompt is a common task for developers, data scientists, and anyone who needs to execute Python scripts. In this article, we will cover the basics of running Python files in the command prompt, including how to install Python, how to create a Python script, and how to run a Python script in the command prompt.

Installing Python

Before you can run a Python file in the command prompt, you need to install Python on your computer. Here are the steps to install Python:

  • Download the latest version of Python: You can download the latest version of Python from the official Python website: https://www.python.org/downloads/
  • Run the installer: Run the installer and follow the prompts to install Python.
  • Add Python to your system’s PATH: After installation, you need to add Python to your system’s PATH. This will allow you to run Python scripts from anywhere on your system.

Creating a Python Script

A Python script is a file that contains Python code that can be executed by the Python interpreter. Here are the steps to create a Python script:

  • Open a text editor: Open a text editor such as Notepad, Notepad++, or Sublime Text.
  • Create a new file: Create a new file with a .py extension, for example, my_script.py.
  • Write your Python code: Write your Python code in the file, for example:

    # my_script.py

print("Hello, World!")

*   **Save the file**: Save the file with a `.py` extension.

**Running a Python Script in the Command Prompt**

Once you have created a Python script, you can run it in the command prompt. Here are the steps to run a Python script in the command prompt:

* **Open the command prompt**: Open the command prompt on your computer.
* **Navigate to the directory containing the script**: Navigate to the directory where you saved the script using the `cd` command. For example:
```bash
cd C:UsersYourUsernameDocuments

  • Run the script: Run the script using the python command. For example:
    python my_script.py
  • Verify the output: Verify the output of the script by opening a new command prompt and running the script again.

Tips and Tricks

  • Use the python command: The python command is the default command to run Python scripts. You can also use the python3 command to run Python 3 scripts.
  • Use the --help option: The --help option can be used to display the help message for a specific command or option.
  • Use the --version option: The --version option can be used to display the version of Python being used.
  • Use the --help option for modules: The --help option can be used to display the help message for a specific module.

Common Python Commands

Here are some common Python commands that you may find useful:

  • python: The default command to run Python scripts.
  • python3: The default command to run Python 3 scripts.
  • python -m: The command to run a Python module as a script.
  • python -i: The command to run a Python script in interactive mode.
  • python -c: The command to run a Python script as a command.

Troubleshooting

Here are some common troubleshooting steps to resolve common issues when running Python scripts in the command prompt:

  • Error messages: If you encounter error messages when running a Python script, check the error message to see what went wrong.
  • Script not running: If your script is not running, check the script’s syntax and make sure it is correct.
  • Script not displaying output: If your script is not displaying output, check the script’s output and make sure it is correct.

Conclusion

Running Python files in the command prompt is a common task for developers, data scientists, and anyone who needs to execute Python scripts. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create and run Python scripts in the command prompt with ease. Remember to install Python, create a Python script, and run the script in the command prompt using the python command. With practice, you will become proficient in running Python scripts in the command prompt and be able to execute complex Python scripts with ease.

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