Python
Note for NUS IT5001 Students
For IT5001, we will be working predominantly with the Python programming language, specifically version 3.14 (latest stable release as of January 2026). A vanilla distribution of Python is enough to get through the course, and is strongly recommended. However, if you have a different distribution (e.g., from Anaconda), you may proceed with using it so long as it is also on the same version.
Instructions¶
- Download the Python 3 installer from python.org.
- Use the graphical installer to install Python.
For customizations:
- Select Add python.exe to PATH to enable launching Python from the command line. This will help with checking if Python is installed correctly.
- Under Optional Features, ensure Documentation and td/tk and IDLE are selected. Documentation allows for quick reference for your convenience, whilst IDLE will be what is used during demonstrations during lecture and allowed during practical exams.
- pip will allow for installing packages used in data science and machine learning later on. It will come essential for you once you reach there, but for now it is not compulsory.
Once done, proceed to check if Python is working properly.
"The Correct Installation Method"¶
A simple search on YouTube or search engine of choice may flood you with various videos claiming a different way to install Python is the correct way. These are often substantiated with their observations on how it helps their own workflow better such as utilizing different versions across different projects, being beneficial with use of some of their other tools, or easy upgradability, or it simply comes down to preference.
My advice is not to get too bogged down by these claims. As a beginner, these scenarios would not apply to you, as you have yet to encounter such issues - in some cases, you may never encounter these issues at all if you do not follow down a similar path in career trajectory or work on anything similar to what they are working on. Following the basic route of navigating into Python.org to download Python will not adversely affect you at this stage yet.
That being said, if you already know a different method of installing Python, and/or may have already been utilizing said method, more power to you. A lot of the advice here is targeted towards beginners, especially those who have not written a line of code before.
Python Version Selection¶
When choosing which version to install, it is often understandable to go for the latest version possible, as it may introduce bug fixes, extra improvements and features, etc. that may enhance one's experience using a program, tool, etc. However, you are advised to go for not simply the latest version, rather the latest stable release (or versions with long-term support (LTS) like with the Java programming language).
The following snapshot shows all the active Python releases as of January 2026. Depending on when you read this and/or when this page is updated, you may see a different collection of versions listed in this table here.
In the list of available versions, observe the column that says "Maintenance status". Do not select any pre-release versions - these are versions that are still being worked on and are not yet a stable substitute to older versions. For beginners, it is imperative that your programming environment poses as few uncertainties as possible to ensure an optimal learning experience.
You can read more about pre-release versions here.
Installation using pyenv¶
I personally use pyenv to install Python - it is easier for me to manage multiple versions of Python that way.
This guide by k0nze will give you the rundown on how to do that.
Check if Python is Installed Correctly¶
If you used the official installer python.org, you should be able to view the installed files in your machine. Otherwise, open up the Terminal or Command Prompt, and type in the following:
You should see the following:
Consequently, you should also be able to start up a Python shell in the Terminal like in IDLE by just typing in python.
In case you get up to here and you do not know how to close the Python shell in the Terminal, just enter exit() or quit().