How-To Install Python

Python is an open-source interpreted, high-level, general-purpose programming language that can be very powerful for automation. It is also possible to use Python in conjunction with your Foxtrot projects. Especially when it comes to machine learning, data analysis, and data processing, Python can offer some unique features.

This article will, based on our experience using Python together with Foxtrot, guide you on how to install and set up Python and PyCharm. Keep in mind, Python can be installed in various different ways and you may do so after your preference. This guide is simply to help people without Python experience to get started based on our experiences.

Install Python

If you for some reason already have some Python installed, make sure to uninstall it and any related programs before proceeding to make sure that you start with a clean slate. Hereafter, go to the official Python downloads website and hit the big yellow downloads button to download the latest version of Python for Windows: https://www.python.org/downloads/

When the download is completed, run the Python installation file.

Make sure to select the option "Add Python to PATH":

Hereafter, make sure to select "Customize installation":

On the next page, make sure to select all the options:

On the next page, make sure to select the first option "Install for all users". Hereafter, you need to modify the path of the install location. Instead of installing it to the user's AppData folder, we recommend installing Python directly on your C: drive. Therefore, keep the last part of the default path ("Python...") but remove all else. It should look something like this:

Now, go ahead and perform the installation. When that is completed, Python is installed on your PC.

Setup an IDE or Text Editor

After installing Python, it is time to find an appropriate integrated development environment (IDE) or text editor for you to use to write and manage your Python code. We have written some guides below to help you get started, or you can decide to use any application you might prefer:

• How-To Install & Setup PyCharm for Python

Use the Python action in Foxtrot

If you are looking for some general information and help to use the Python action in Foxtrot in general, you can read our guide:

• How-To Use The Foxtrot Python Action