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How to Run a Python Script in Windows: A Detailed Guide in Simple Language

A step-by-step guide for beginners on how to run a Python script in the Windows operating system.

In this article, we will take a detailed look at several ways to run scripts written in the Python programming language in a Windows environment. This guide will be helpful for beginners taking their first steps in Python, as well as for those who want to refresh their knowledge.

Prerequisites

Before we begin, make sure that the Python interpreter is installed on your computer. You can download the latest version from the official website: https://www.python.org/downloads/. During installation, be sure to check the "Add Python to PATH" option to simplify running scripts from the command line.

Ways to Run Python Scripts

1. Running via the Command Prompt or PowerShell

  1. Open the Command Prompt. To do this, press Win + R, type cmd, and press Enter (or type powershell and press Enter for PowerShell).
  2. Navigate to the directory where your Python script is located. Use the cd (change directory) command. For example, if your script is in the folder C:\Users\YourUser\Documents\PythonScripts, type cd C:\Users\YourUser\Documents\PythonScripts and press Enter.
  3. To run the script, type the command python your_script_name.py and press Enter. If you are using PowerShell, the command will be similar: python your_script_name.py.

2. Running by Double-Clicking (for simple scripts only)

For simple scripts that do not require input via the command line, you can run them by double-clicking the file with the .py extension. Windows will automatically run the script using the Python interpreter.

Note: If the script outputs any information or requests input, the console window may close quickly after the script finishes running. To see the results, it is better to use the command line method.

3. Running from an Integrated Development Environment (IDE)

If you are using an IDE for Python development (such as PyCharm, VS Code with the Python extension), you can run scripts directly from the editor. There is usually a special "Run" button or a keyboard shortcut for this.

Conclusion

Now you know several ways to run Python scripts in Windows. The choice of method depends on your preferences, the complexity of the script, and the need to interact with it via the command line.

Official Python Website: https://www.python.org/