How to Run a Python Script in PowerShell

Learn how to execute Python scripts in PowerShell with this simple guide, covering installation, environment setup, and script execution steps.
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Running a Python script in PowerShell is a straightforward process that involves setting up your environment and executing the script with the right commands. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started.

Step 1: Install Python
Before you can run Python scripts, you need to have Python installed on your system. Follow these steps to install Python:

Download Python: Visit the official Python website and download the latest version of Python suitable for your operating system.

Run the Installer: Execute the downloaded installer. During installation, make sure to check the option that adds Python to your system PATH. This allows you to run Python from any command line interface, including PowerShell.

Verify Installation: Open PowerShell and type python --version to confirm that Python is installed correctly. You should see the installed Python version displayed.

Step 2: Write Your Python Script

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

Save this file in a directory that you can easily access.

Step 3: Open PowerShell
To run your Python script, you need to open PowerShell. You can do this by:

Search for PowerShell: Click on the Start menu and type "PowerShell" in the search bar. Click on "Windows PowerShell" to open it.

Navigate to Your Script Directory: Use the cd (change directory) command to navigate to the directory where your Python script is saved. For example:

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

Step 4: Run the Python Script
Once you are in the directory where your script is located, you can run the script by typing the following command:

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

If everything is set up correctly, you should see the output of your script in the PowerShell window. For the example script above, it will print "Hello, World!".

Step 5: Troubleshooting
If you encounter any issues, here are a few common troubleshooting tips:

Python Not Recognized: Ensure that Python is added to your system PATH. You can re-run the Python installer and make sure the option to add Python to PATH is checked.

Correct Directory: Make sure you are in the correct directory where your Python script is located. Use the ls or dir command to list the files in the current directory and verify your script's presence.

Conclusion
Running Python scripts in PowerShell is a simple task once your environment is set up correctly. By following these steps, you can execute your scripts and start leveraging the power of Python in your workflows. Whether you're automating tasks, analyzing data, or developing applications, running your scripts in PowerShell provides a versatile and efficient way to manage your Python projects.