How to Run a Python Script on Mac

Running a Python script on a Mac is a relatively straightforward process that can be accomplished in several ways. In this article, we will explore the different methods of running a Python script on a Mac, including using the terminal, the Python launcher, and running the script through an IDE.

Running a Python script in the terminal: A terminal is a powerful tool that provides access to the underlying Unix system that powers a Mac. To run a Python script in the terminal, follow these steps:

Open the terminal by searching for it in Spotlight (press Cmd + Space) or by going to the Applications folder and selecting Utilities then Terminal.
Change to the directory where your script is located using the cd command. For example, if your script is located in the Documents folder, you would type cd ~/Documents.
To run your script, simply type python3 followed by the name of your script, for example, python3 myscript.py. The script will then run and produce any output it generates.

Running a Python script using the Python launcher: The Python launcher is a tool that provides an easy way to run Python scripts on a Mac. To run a Python script using the Python launcher, follow these steps:

Right-click on your script file in the Finder and select Open With then Python Launcher.
The Python launcher will automatically run your script and produce any output it generates.

Running a Python script through an IDE: An Integrated Development Environment (IDE) is a software application that provides a comprehensive environment for developing and running Python scripts. There are several popular IDEs available for Python on the Mac, including PyCharm, Spyder, and Visual Studio Code. To run a Python script through an IDE, follow these steps:

Launch your IDE and open the script file.
Depending on the IDE you are using, you may need to set the interpreter for your script by going to the Preferences or Settings menu and selecting Python Interpreter.
To run your script, use the Run or Execute command in the IDE, or press the Cmd + R keyboard shortcut. The script will then run and produce any output it generates.

In conclusion, running a Python script on a Mac can be done in several ways, including using the terminal, the Python launcher, or an IDE. Each method has its own advantages, so you may want to experiment with each one to see which works best for you. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced Python developer, running your scripts on a Mac is a simple and straightforward process that provides a wealth of opportunities for exploring the power of Python.