New to Python? Here’s How to Set Up VS Code For Python and Run Your First Program

Hey there!

So, you’re ready to learn Python? Awesome choice. But before we dive into writing code, let’s get your computer set up — step by step.

Trust me, it’s easier than you think. Let’s go.

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Step 1: Install Python

You need Python installed first.

1. Go to python.org/downloads  
2. Click Download Python for your system (Windows, Mac, or Linux).
3. Open the installer.
   Important: Tick the box that says “Add Python to PATH”, then click Install Now.

✅ Done? Great!

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Step 2: Install VS Code (Your Code Editor)

Think of VS Code as your notebook for writing code — but way cooler.

1. Go to code.visualstudio.com
2. Download and install it like any normal app.

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Step 3: Add Python Support to VS Code

1. Open VS Code.
2. Click the Extensions icon on the left (or press Ctrl + Shift + X).
3. Search for “Python” and install the one by Microsoft.

💡 Bonus tip: You can also install:

• Pylance (helps with smart suggestions)
• Jupyter (if you want to explore data science later)

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Step 4: Run Your First Python Program

1. Create a new folder, e.g., my-python-projects
2. Open the folder in VS Code
3. Create a new file called hello.py
4. Type this code:

print("Hello, Python world!")

5. Save the file

How to Run It

• Click the green play button ▶️ at the top, OR
• Right-click the file and select Run Python File in Terminal

What you should see:

Hello, Python world!

🎉 Boom! You just ran your first Python program.

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Ready for the Next Lesson?

Now that you’ve got Python and VS Code set up, it’s time to write some real code. 🎯

Next: Python Variables and Data Types for Beginners

In that post, we’ll explore how to store, use, and play with data in Python — all explained simply and with hands-on examples.

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