Learning Python: What Do I Need to Download?

[physicsCU]

Hey all,

I decided I want to learn Python. Why? Cause I can.

But, and I can't find this anywhere, what all do I need to download to start? Obviously I need the core product, but what about IDE's or text editors? I can't find any information as to whether or not i need this, or tips or what.

So can someone kinda step me through this? I know about ActiveState, but I want to choose my own stuff, but no one seems to say what all is needed. It seems like the core product from python.org will be fine, but i dunno.

I have MATLAB experience and use Windows.

Thanks!

 

[chroot]

I assume you're running Windows. (If you're running any variant of Unix, Python is probably already installed for you.)

1. For Windows, download the Windows installer[/u]. This will install the Python interpreter itself, a bunch of common libraries, and some simple IDEs.

2. Alternatively, you may wish to install cygwin on your Windows machine. Cygwin is a POSIX layer that runs above Windows and allows you to run just about any Unix program on your Windows machine. It comes with Python in the default install.

3. You don't really need to use any special text editor, but I prefer TextPad and UltraEdit.

4. For actually learning Python, I recommend O'Reilly's Learning Python and Programming Python. There are also plenty of tutorials on the web, for example at http://python.org.

- Warren

 

[robphy]

https://www.physicsforums.com/blog/2005/10/19/vpython-3d-programming-for-ordinary-mortals/

 

[susmit]

python comes with an inbuilt ide called python. it is pretty good for basic purposes. for advanced features, you might want to try out komodo (ActiveState).

 

[ComputerGeek]

For learning all you need is a good text editor.. no need for an IDE at that point.

On windows, I like Notepad++... I am a fan of the basics... I don't usually use IDEs for projects even.