Python Overview & Setup

Python is one of the most popular, powerful, and easy-to-learn programming languages in the world. Whether you want to learn Data Science, Machine Learning, AI, Web Development, Automation, or Cybersecurity, Python is the foundation.

This article explains everything like a teacher, step-by-step so beginners can understand clearly.

What is Python?

Python is a high-level, interpreted programming language used for simple scripts, applications, and large-scale systems.

It is known for:

  • Simple English-like syntax

  • Large community support

  • Powerful libraries (NumPy, Pandas, Django, TensorFlow)

  • Cross-platform support (Windows, Mac, Linux)

Why is Python Popular?

  • Easy to learn – great for students

  • Versatile – works in almost every field

  • Huge ecosystem of libraries

  • High demand in jobs

  • Strong support for Data Science & AI

Where is Python Used?

Python is used across top industries:

Data Science & Machine Learning

Libraries → Pandas, NumPy, Scikit-learn, TensorFlow

Artificial Intelligence & Deep Learning

Used in NLP, Computer Vision, Chatbots

Web Development

Frameworks → Django, Flask, FastAPI

Automation & Scripting

Automating tasks, file management, testing

DevOps & Cloud Computing

AWS, Azure, Google Cloud SDKs

Cybersecurity

Pen testing scripts, log monitoring, vulnerability scanning

Key Features of Python

Easy Syntax

Python looks like English.

 
print("Hello, World!")

Interpreted Language

Runs line-by-line → quick debugging.

Cross-platform

Works everywhere → Windows, macOS, Linux.

Huge Standard Library

Built-in modules for math, OS, file handling, networking.

Supports Multiple Paradigms

  • Object-Oriented

  • Functional

  • Procedural

Massive Community Support

Millions of developers contribute tutorials, libraries, solutions.

Python Setup Guide (Step-by-Step for All Systems)

Install Python on Windows

Step 1: Download Python

Go to the official Python website:
 (Search on Google: Download Python)

Click Download Python 3.x.x

Step 2: Run the Installer

Important: Tick the checkbox
Add Python to PATH

Then click Install Now.

Step 3: Verify Installation

Open Command Prompt → type:

 
python --version

You should see something like:

 
Python 3.12.1

Install Python on macOS

Step 1: Install Homebrew (recommended)

Open Terminal:

/bin/bash -c "$(curl -fsSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Homebrew/install/HEAD/install.sh)"

Step 2: Install Python using Homebrew

brew install python

Step 3: Verify

python3 --version

Install Python on Linux (Ubuntu/Debian)

Most Linux systems already have Python.

To install manually:

 
sudo apt update
sudo apt install python3 python3-pip

Verify:

 
python3 --version

Installing PIP (Python Package Manager)

PIP lets you install external libraries like Pandas, NumPy, Flask.

Check if pip exists:

 
pip --version

If not installed on Linux:

 
sudo apt install python3-pip

Installing Important Python Libraries

For Data Science

pip install numpy pandas matplotlib seaborn scikit-learn

For Web Development

pip install flask django fastapi

For Automation

pip install pyautogui requests beautifulsoup4

Best Python IDEs

VS Code (Highly Recommended)

  • Fast

  • Free

  • Python extension

  • Jupyter Notebook support

PyCharm

  • Best for professional developers

  • Smart auto-completion

Jupyter Notebook

  • Best for Data Science

  • Interactive coding

  • Visualizations inside cells

Google Colab

  • Runs in browser

  • Free GPU

  • No installation needed

Testing Your First Python Program

Open your IDE or terminal and type:

 
print("Welcome to Python!")

If it runs successfully → setup is complete.

Understanding Python File Execution

Option 1: Run from IDE

Press Run ▶

Option 2: Run from Command Line

Save file as hello.py
Then run:

 
python hello.py

Common Python Setup Errors & Fixes

“Python is not recognized”

Fix: Add Python to PATH
Reinstall and check the box.

pip command not found

Fix: Run:

python -m ensurepip --default-pip

No module named ‘pandas’

Fix:

pip install pandas