How to Install Python on Windows and macOS: A Beginner-Friendly Guide

Whether you're diving into data science, web development, or automation, Python is one of the best programming languages to start with. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to install Python on both Windows and macOS, step-by-step.

Why Install Python?

Python is:

• Easy to learn and read

• Widely used in machine learning, data analysis, and automation

• Supported by a massive community and countless libraries

Let’s get started!

Installing Python on Windows

Step 1: Download Python

1. Go to the official Python website: https://www.python.org/downloads

2. Click the Download Python button (the latest version will be highlighted).

Step 2: Run the Installer

1. Open the downloaded .exe file.

2. Important: Check the box that says “Add Python to PATH”.

3. Click Install Now.

Step 3: Verify Installation

1. Open Command Prompt.

Type:

python --version

2.  You should see something like Python 3.12.0.

Installing Python on macOS

Step 1: Download Python

1. Visit https://www.python.org/downloads.

2. Click the Download Python button for macOS.

Step 2: Run the Installer

1. Open the downloaded .pkg file.

2. Follow the installation steps.

Step 3: Verify Installation

1. Open Terminal.

Type:

python --version

2.  You should see the installed version, e.g., Python 3.12.0.

Optional: Install a Code Editor

To write and run Python code easily, install a code editor like:

• VS Code

• PyCharm

• Thonny – great for beginners

Test Your Setup

Create a simple Python file to test:

1. Open your text editor.

2. Write:

print("Hello, Python!")

3. Save it as hello.py.

4. Run it from Terminal from the folder in which hello.py is saved:

python hello.py   # Windows

python3 hello.py  # macOS

You're Ready to Code!

Now that Python is installed, you’re all set to start learning and building. Whether you're exploring data science or automating tasks, Python opens up a world of possibilities.