Creating scripts in Python is simple and straightforward. Here’s a basic guide on how to create a Python script:
1. Start your Python Application:
Open your Python installation. This could be an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) like PyCharm, Jupyter Notebook or even just a simple text editor like Notepad or Nano on UNIX-based systems.
1. Write the Basic Python Script:
Start by adding the following lines of code to your file:
```
print(“Hello, World!”)
```
This script basically outputs the text “Hello, World!” when it’s run.
1. Save the File:
After writing your script, you should save it. Make sure to save it with the .py extension to indicate that it is a Python script.
For instance, you could save our previous script as `hello_world.py`.
1. Run the Script:
There are different ways to run a Python script.
- Through the command line: if Python is setup in your system’s environment variables, you can navigate to the directory containing your script using the `cd` command and then type `python hello_world.py` to run it.
- Through the IDE: If you’re using an IDE, there’s typically an option to run the script directly. For instance, in PyCharm there is a ‘Run’ option in the top menu.
The written script should execute and you should see the text “Hello, World!” on your command line or output console.
1. Expanding the Script:
As you get comfortable, you can create more complex Python scripts. You can use variables, loops, conditional statements, functions, classes, and even import different Python modules to help you with your scripting.
1. Commenting:
Comments are crucial when writing scripts. They help you and other people understand what the script does. Adding comments in Python is as easy as starting a line with the `#` symbol.
For instance:
```
1. Debugging:
During script writing, you might encounter errors. Python will typically give you an error message to help you understand what’s gone wrong. This allows you to modify and correct your script.
