How to Resolve SyntaxError: invalid syntax in Python on Raspberry Pi

Discover why you're encountering a `SyntaxError` in your Python script on Raspberry Pi and find solutions to run your code seamlessly across platforms.
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Troubleshooting SyntaxError: invalid syntax in Python

As a beginner in Python programming, it's common to encounter unexpected errors when transitioning your code from one environment to another. One such error is SyntaxError: invalid syntax. If you've developed a Python script that runs smoothly on your Windows machine, only to be met with this syntax error on your Raspberry Pi, you're not alone. Let's dig into why this happens and how you can resolve it.

The Problem

The specific error was encountered on line 155 of your script, during the execution of an except block:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

This line utilizes an f-string, a feature introduced in Python 3.6 that allows you to embed expressions inside string literals for easier readability.

Why It Works on Windows but Not on Raspberry Pi

Different Python Versions: The main reason this script functions correctly on Windows but raises a syntax error on the Raspberry Pi is likely due to the version of Python installed on your Raspberry Pi. Python f-strings will throw syntax errors if the interpreter is an earlier version than 3.6.

Default Python Command: On many systems, the command python may point to Python 2.x (for example, Python 2.7), which does not support f-strings.

Solution Steps

To resolve this issue, follow these steps:

Step 1: Check Python Version on Raspberry Pi

Open the terminal on your Raspberry Pi and run the following command to check the Python version installed:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

If the output is earlier than 3.6, you will need to install a newer version or ensure you are running the correct Python command.

Step 2: Run Python 3

Instead of using the python command directly, try running:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

This should point you to Python 3.x. If you confirm that it is version 3.6 or newer, you can execute your script using:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

Step 3: Install/Upgrade Python

If you find that your version is indeed outdated:

You can update your Raspberry Pi's package repository and install the latest version of Python with these commands:

[[See Video to Reveal this Text or Code Snippet]]

(If you need a specific version, follow the Raspberry Pi documentation or consider using third-party tools like pyenv.)

Step 4: Edit the Script as Necessary

Double-check your script for any other f-strings or syntax that may be unsupported in older Python versions and adjust accordingly.

Conclusion

Error messages like SyntaxError: invalid syntax can be frustrating, especially when your code works perfectly in one environment and not another. The essential part is determining the version differences and ensuring compatibility. Upgrading your Python version should resolve these issues and help you run your scripts smoothly, whether on Windows or Raspberry Pi.

Remember, programming is a journey filled with learning experiences. Each error is an opportunity to deepen your understanding and improve your coding skills!