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Asked: 2024-09-26T21:43:25+05:30 In: ,

How can I include Python in the system PATH variable on a Windows machine?

I’ve been diving into Python lately, really trying to get my head around it since it seems to be a great language for everything from scripting to web development. But I hit this annoying roadblock with the whole system PATH thing on my Windows machine. It’s like, how come something so basic is so elusive?

So here’s the deal: I’ve installed Python, and it seems like it’s sitting there all pretty in my Programs folder, but when I open up the command prompt and type `python`, it’s like, “Hey, I don’t recognize this command.” I must have missed that magical step during the installation or something. I thought I could just run Python anytime, anywhere, but nope!

I did some digging and found out that I probably need to add Python to my system PATH variable. I mean, it sounds straightforward, but the way online forums explained it… let’s just say, it felt like they were talking in a different language. I see instructions that say to go into System Properties, find the environment variables, and then… something about adding a new entry? My head started spinning. I want to do this right, because I’ve got all sorts of plans for Python projects, but I can’t keep hopping back and forth between the directory where Python is installed and where I want to run my scripts.

Honestly, I’m just looking for something that breaks it down step-by-step. Like, what exactly do I need to enter for the PATH? Do I have to worry about the version of Python I installed? Is it enough to just throw the Python folder in there, or do I have to add the Scripts folder too? I’ve heard conflicting advice, and I just want to avoid messing something up.

If anyone can share their experience or maybe a clear walkthrough, that would be super helpful. I’m ready to get my hands dirty and start coding without any hiccups! Thanks in advance for your help!

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    2 Answers

    1. To successfully run Python from the command prompt on your Windows machine, you do indeed need to add Python to your system PATH. This can be a bit disorienting at first, but it’s quite manageable once you break it down into clear steps. First, locate your Python installation directory, which typically resides in a path similar to `C:\Python39` or within your Program Files in a folder like `C:\Program Files\Python39`. You also need to know where the Scripts folder is, which should be in the same directory, as it generally looks like `C:\Python39\Scripts`. Carefully note these paths as you will need them for the PATH variable.

      Now, here’s how you add Python to your PATH. Right-click on the ‘This PC’ or ‘Computer’ icon on your desktop or in File Explorer, then choose ‘Properties’. Click on ‘Advanced system settings’ on the left, and in the System Properties window, go to the ‘Environment Variables’ button. In the System Variables section, look for the variable named ‘Path’ and select it, then click ‘Edit’. In the new window, click ‘New’ and add the paths you noted earlier, like `C:\Python39` and `C:\Python39\Scripts`. Click ‘OK’ to close each of the windows. Once you’ve done this, you should reopen your command prompt and type `python` to check if it recognizes the command. Remember, if you installed a different version of Python, make sure to replace `39` with your respective version number. This will set you up for smooth sailing with your Python projects!

    2. Getting Python on Your PATH – A Simple Guide

      So, you’ve installed Python, but the Command Prompt doesn’t recognize the `python` command, huh? No worries—let’s get that fixed up!

      Step 1: Find Your Python Installation Path

      First things first, we need to know where Python is sitting on your computer. Typically, it’s in a folder like this:

      C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Local\Programs\Python\Python39

      Make sure to replace YourUsername with your actual username and check the version number (like Python39 for Python 3.9).

      Step 2: Access Environment Variables

      Now, let’s get to the important stuff. Right-click on the Start button and select System. Then click on Advanced system settings on the left side. This opens up the System Properties window.

      In the System Properties window, hit that Environment Variables button at the bottom.

      Step 3: Modify the PATH Variable

      In the Environment Variables window, you should see two sections: User variables and System variables. Look for Path in the User variables section and select it. Then click on Edit.

      Now, time to add Python! Click New and add the path to the Python folder you found earlier:

      C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Local\Programs\Python\Python39

      Also, add the Scripts folder for good measure:

      C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Local\Programs\Python\Python39\Scripts

      Step 4: Confirm Your Changes

      Once you’ve added both paths, hit OK to close all the windows. Now, open your Command Prompt again and type python. If everything went smoothly, you should see the Python prompt!

      Tips:

      • Make sure to restart your Command Prompt after the changes.
      • If you’re using a different version, adjust those paths accordingly.
      • You can also type python --version to confirm it’s working.

      And that’s it! You should be good to go. Happy coding with Python!

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