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Python Python Basics (2015) Python for Beginners Running Python Scripts

Kathy Lanier
Kathy Lanier
4,426 Points
Posted by Kathy Lanier
Kathy Lanier
4,426 Points

Can you call scripts from the terminal? I have an Apple machine and using version 2.7.10

I like the idea of learning within the environment that I will actually use Python. So, how would I call a script from the terminal Python shell?

1 Answer

Brian Boring
PLUS
Brian Boring
Courses Plus Student 3,904 Points
Brian Boring
Brian Boring
Courses Plus Student 3,904 Points

Just type in "python" without the quotes and it will put you into a python shell. Once you see >>> you know you are good to start programming in python. That being said, I felt the same way and wanted to use a real world IDE, so I started using PyCharm and doing all the work of this course there. I highly recommend it.

Brian Boring
Brian Boring
Courses Plus Student 3,904 Points
Brian Boring
Brian Boring
Courses Plus Student 3,904 Points

If you are trying to call a previously written script in the shell, just make sure you are in the folder that the script exists in, and then type "python script_name.py" without the quotes. Make sure you have a space between python and the script file name.