How to Fix ModuleNotFoundError for Python Packages After Installing with Pip

Encountering `ModuleNotFoundError` even after installing a package with Pip? Discover how to resolve this common issue in Python, particularly on Windows 11 with VSCode.
---

Visit these links for original content and any more details, such as alternate solutions, latest updates/developments on topic, comments, revision history etc. For example, the original title of the Question was: Python module not found after pip install

If anything seems off to you, please feel free to write me at vlogize [AT] gmail [DOT] com.
---
How to Fix ModuleNotFoundError for Python Packages After Installing with Pip

If you've recently installed a Python package using pip, such as pdfkit, but still face an error indicating that the module cannot be found, you're not alone. This problem often occurs, especially on Windows systems or after a Python update. In this blog, we’ll explore the possible cause behind this issue and provide a simple, step-by-step solution.

Understanding the Problem

When you try to run your script that imports a package, such as:

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

but end up with the error:

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

it may appear puzzling, particularly when checking pip list shows that the package is indeed installed. Typically, this issue arises due to the following reasons:

Wrong Virtual Environment: You might not be running your script in the correct Python environment where the package was installed.

Python Version Conflict: A recent update or a reinstallation could change the Python environment that you're currently using.

Steps to Resolve the Issue

Here, we will break down the solution into a few straightforward steps to ensure that you're using the correct environment:

Step 1: Activate Your Virtual Environment

Make sure to activate the virtual environment in which you installed your package. For example, if your virtual environment's name is free, you would run the following command in your command prompt (cmd):

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

If you are using virtualenvwrapper, the command workon will help you easily switch to your environment.

Step 2: Locate the Python Executable

To confirm that you are using the correct Python executable, run the following command:

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

This will list all the available Python executables. You'll see something like:

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

Make sure the path to your virtual environment appears in this list. The active environment should be the one you installed pdfkit in.

Step 3: Run Your Python Code

Finally, to run your Python script using the correct interpreter, adjust your command to use the full path to the one in your activated virtual environment:

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

By explicitly specifying the path, you ensure that the correct Python environment executes your script, preventing any module grievances.

Conclusion

Whenever you encounter ModuleNotFoundError after installing a package using pip, remember the three-step process summarized above. Most often, it is related to the virtual environment context rather than the installation itself. By ensuring you are in the correct environment and using the right Python executable, you can mitigate these issues and get back to coding seamlessly.

If you follow these steps and still face issues, consider checking for other factors such as Python version compatibility or potential conflicts with other installed packages. Happy coding!