Run a Python Script Effortlessly

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How to Run Your Python Scripts and Code

A Python script or program is a file containing executable Python code. Being able to run Python scripts and code is probably the most important skill that you need as a Python developer. By running your code, you’ll know if it works as planned. You’ll also be able to test and debug the code to fix errors and issues. Ultimately, you write code in order to run it and accomplish tasks.

In this tutorial, you’ll learn about some of the techniques for running Python scripts and code. The technique that you’ll use in each situation will depend on your environment, platform, needs, and skills.

Run Python Scripts From the Command Line

When running Python scripts from the command line or terminal, there are several approaches you can take:

1. Using the python Command:

   • Make sure you have Python installed on your system.
   • Open the command line or terminal.
   • Enter the command python followed by the name of your script file.
   • Press Enter to run the script.

2. Using the Script’s Filename Directly:

   • Make your script executable by adding a shebang line at the top of the file.
   • Open the command line or terminal.
   • Navigate to the directory where your script is located.
   • Enter the name of your script file directly.
   • Press Enter to run the script.

3. Running Modules With the -m Option:

   • Open the command line or terminal.
   • Enter the command python -m followed by the name of your module.
   • Press Enter to run the module.

Run Python Code Interactively

Python provides an interactive mode where you can execute code snippets and get immediate results. To run Python code interactively:

1. Getting to Know the Python Interpreter:

   • Open the command line or terminal.
   • Enter the command python to start the Python interpreter.
   • You can now enter Python code directly and see the results.

2. Running Python Code Interactively:

   • Open the command line or terminal.
   • Enter the command python -i followed by the name of your script file.
   • Press Enter to run the script and enter interactive mode afterward.

Run Scripts From Python Code

There are various ways to run Python scripts from within other Python code:

1. Taking Advantage of Import Statements:

   • Use the import statement to import the module containing the script.
   • Call the functions or execute the code in the imported module.

2. Using the importlib Standard-Library Module:

   • Import the importlib module.
   • Use the import_module function to import the module containing the script.
   • Call the functions or execute the code in the imported module.

3. Leveraging the Power of the Built-in exec() Function:

   • Use the exec() function to execute the code in the script file.
   • You can capture the output or store the results in variables.

Run Python Scripts on IDEs and Code Editors

Most Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) and code editors provide built-in features for running Python scripts. The exact steps may vary depending on the specific IDE or code editor you are using. Here are some general steps to run Python scripts:

1. Open your desired IDE or code editor.
2. Open the script file you want to run.
3. Look for the “Run” or “Execute” button or option in the IDE.
4. Click the button or choose the option to run the script.

Run Python Scripts From a File Manager

Some operating systems allow you to run Python scripts directly from the file manager. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Open the file manager on your operating system.
2. Locate the Python script file you want to run.
3. Right-click on the file to open the context menu.
4. Look for an option like “Run” or “Execute” and click on it.

Conclusion

Running Python scripts and code is essential for Python developers. Whether you’re running scripts from the command line, interactively, from other Python code, on IDEs and code editors, or directly from the file manager, understanding how to execute Python code is crucial. By following the techniques explained in this tutorial, you’ll have the knowledge and skills to run your Python scripts and code effectively. Experiment and practice with different methods to become proficient in running Python scripts.