Python Getting Started Using VS Code

After installing Python, the next step is to set up a development environment where you can write and run your Python code. Visual Studio Code (VS Code) is a popular, lightweight, and powerful code editor that is widely used by developers. This guide will walk you through the process of installing VS Code, setting up the Python extension, creating a “Hello, World!” program, and exploring other options for running Python code.

Installing Visual Studio Code

Step 1: Download VS Code

1. Visit the VS Code Website: Open your web browser and go to the official Visual Studio Code website at code.visualstudio.com.
2. Download the Installer: Click on the “Download” button. The website will automatically detect your operating system and provide the appropriate installer.

Step 2: Install VS Code

1. Run the Installer: Once the download is complete, open the installer file. Follow the prompts to complete the installation. You can choose the default installation options or customize the installation path and additional tasks.
2. Launch VS Code: After the installation is complete, launch Visual Studio Code.

Installing the Python Extension in VS Code

Step 1: Open the Extensions View

1. Open Extensions: In VS Code, click on the Extensions icon in the Activity Bar on the side of the window. Alternatively, you can open the Extensions view by pressing Ctrl+Shift+X (Windows/Linux) or Cmd+Shift+X (macOS).

Step 2: Search for the Python Extension

1. Search for Python: In the Extensions view, type “Python” in the search bar. The Python extension by Microsoft should be the first result.

Step 3: Install the Python Extension

1. Install Extension: Click on the “Install” button next to the Python extension by Microsoft. This extension provides rich support for Python, including IntelliSense, linting, debugging, and more.

Creating a “Hello, World!” Program

Step 1: Create a New File

1. Open a New File: In VS Code, click on “File” in the menu bar and select “New File”. Alternatively, you can press Ctrl+N (Windows/Linux) or Cmd+N (macOS).

Step 2: Write the Code

1. Write “Hello, World!”: Type the following code in the new file:
   • print("Hello, World!")

Step 3: Save the File

1. Save the File: Save the file by clicking on “File” in the menu bar and selecting “Save As”. Choose a location to save the file and name it helloworld.py. Make sure to include the .py extension.

Running the Code Using the Python Extension

Step 1: Run the Code

1. Run the Code: With the helloworld.py file open, you can run the code by clicking on the “Run” button in the top-right corner of the editor. Alternatively, you can press Ctrl+F5 (Windows/Linux) or Cmd+F5 (macOS).

Step 2: View the Output

1. View Output: The output of the program will be displayed in the “Terminal” panel at the bottom of the VS Code window. You should see “Hello, World!” printed.

Running Code Through the VS Code Terminal

Step 1: Open the Terminal

1. Open Terminal: In VS Code, click on “Terminal” in the menu bar and select “New Terminal”. This will open a new terminal panel at the bottom of the window.

Step 2: Run the Code

1. Run the Code: In the terminal, navigate to the directory where you saved the helloworld.py file using the cd command. Then, run the code by typing:python helloworld.py
2. View Output: The output of the program will be displayed in the terminal.

Other Options for Running Python Code

Google Colab

 Google Colab is a free, cloud-based Jupyter notebook environment that allows you to write and run Python code in your browser. It is especially useful for data science and machine learning projects. You can access Google Colab at colab.research.google.com.

PyCharm

 PyCharm is a powerful Integrated Development Environment (IDE) for Python developed by JetBrains. It offers advanced features such as code analysis, debugging, and integration with version control systems. You can download PyCharm from jetbrains.com/pycharm.

Recommended Extensions for Python Users in VS Code

1. Python (by Microsoft): Provides rich support for Python, including IntelliSense, linting, debugging, and more.
2. Pylance: A fast, feature-rich language support extension for Python, providing enhanced IntelliSense and type checking.
3. Jupyter: Adds support for Jupyter notebooks in VS Code, allowing you to create and run Jupyter notebooks directly in the editor.
4. Python Docstring Generator: Automatically generates docstrings for your Python functions and classes.
5. Python Test Explorer: Integrates with the Test Explorer UI to run and debug Python tests.

Conclusion

 Setting up Python in Visual Studio Code is a straightforward process that allows you to start coding quickly. By following this guide, you can install VS Code, set up the Python extension, create and run your first Python program, and explore other options for running Python code. Happy coding!