Executing Python Scripts from the Command Line

1. Write a Python Script:

First, create or obtain a Python script that you want to execute from the command line. Ensure that the script is saved with a ".py" extension, as it indicates that the file contains Python code.

2. Open a Command Prompt or Terminal:

On Windows, open the Command Prompt (cmd.exe). On macOS and Linux, open the Terminal. You can do this by searching for "Command Prompt" or "Terminal" in your computer's search bar or using the keyboard shortcut (e.g., Windows: Win + R, then type "cmd" and press Enter).

3. Navigate to the Script's Location:

Use the cd command (change directory) to navigate to the folder where your Python script is located. For example, if your script is in the "Documents" folder:

        
            cd Documents

You can use the dir command on Windows or ls command on macOS and Linux to list the files and folders in the current directory.

4. Execute the Python Script:

To run the Python script, use the python command followed by the name of your script (including the ".py" extension). For example, if your script is named "my_script.py":

        
            python my_script.py

Press Enter, and the Python interpreter will execute your script. You should see the output of the script, if any, displayed in the command prompt or terminal.

5. Passing Command-Line Arguments (Optional):

You can also pass command-line arguments to your Python script. Command-line arguments allow you to provide additional information or data to the script when executing it from the command line. In Python, you can access these arguments using the sys.argv list. For example:

        
            python my_script.py arg1 arg2 arg3

In this example, "arg1", "arg2", and "arg3" are command-line arguments that can be accessed in your Python script using sys.argv[1], sys.argv[2], and so on.

6. Review the Script's Output:

After executing the Python script, review the output in the command prompt or terminal. This output could be any text or data generated by your script's code.

Executing Python scripts from the command line allows you to interactively run your programs, pass arguments, and see the results in real-time. It's a powerful way to test and debug your Python code as you develop your projects.