If you’re just getting started with Python, your first real challenge isn’t writing code it’s setting up your environment the right way. And let’s be honest, this is where most beginners feel lost.

In this post, I’ll walk you through every step to download and install Python, set up PyCharm (your coding workspace), and run your very first Python program. No assumptions. No skipped steps.

Let’s set you up properly so you can write real code with zero setup headaches.

✅ What You’ll Need

• A Windows, macOS, or Linux computer
• Internet connection
• 15–30 minutes of time
• Basic comfort using your system’s file explorer

🐍 Step 1: Install Python (the Interpreter)

🔗 Download Python:

1. Visit the official site: https://www.python.org/downloads
2. Click the yellow button: “Download Python 3.x.x”
   • (The version will vary always pick the latest stable version)

⚠️ Important for Windows users: On the first screen during installation, be sure to check the box that says “Add Python to PATH.”

🛠 Windows Installation:

• Click the downloaded .exe file
• Check “Add Python to PATH” ✅
• Click “Install Now”
• Wait for the installer to finish
• Click “Close”

🍎 macOS Installation:

• Download the .pkg file
• Open it → follow the installer prompts
• Python is installed in /usr/local/bin/python3

🐧 Linux Installation:

• Use your terminal:

sudo apt update sudo apt install python3

✅ To confirm installation, open your terminal or command prompt and run:

python --version
# or
python3 --version

You should see something like:

Python 3.12.0

🧰 Step 2: Install PyCharm (Your IDE)

What is PyCharm?

PyCharm is an Integrated Development Environment think of it like Microsoft Word, but for writing Python code. It makes your life 10x easier with auto-complete, color coding, and helpful tools.

🖥️ Download PyCharm:

1. Go to: https://www.jetbrains.com/pycharm/download
2. Choose:
   • Community Edition (Free & Perfect for Beginners)
   • Download the installer based on your OS

💻 Install on Windows:

• Run the downloaded .exe
• Keep all default settings checked ✅
• Optional: Enable “Add launchers dir to PATH”
• Click “Install”

🍎 Install on macOS:

• Open the .dmg file
• Drag PyCharm into the Applications folder
• Open it from Launchpad or Finder

🐧 Install on Linux:

If available via Snap:

sudo snap install pycharm-community --classic

Otherwise, use the tarball and follow JetBrains’ Linux guide.

🚀 Step 3: Set Up Your First Project in PyCharm

1. Open PyCharm
2. Click “New Project”
3. Location: Choose or create a folder like ~/python-learning
4. Interpreter:
   • Select “New Virtual Environment”
   • Make sure it points to the Python version you installed earlier
5. Click “Create”

PyCharm will now create a clean environment for your Python files.

📝 Step 4: Write Your First Python File

1. Inside your new project, right-click the project folder → New → Python File
2. Name it hello.py
3. Type this code:

print("Hello, world!")

4. Right-click anywhere in the editor → click “Run hello”

You’ll see this in the terminal:

Hello, world!


🎉 Boom you’ve officially written and executed your first Python program.

🛠 Bonus Tip: Customize PyCharm Theme

Want a dark theme?

• Go to File → Settings → Appearance & Behavior → Theme
• Choose “Darcula” for a sleek dark look
• Apply and enjoy!

🧠 What You’ve Learned

✅ Installed Python
✅ Set up PyCharm
✅ Created your first project
✅ Wrote and ran your first script

You’re now ready to start learning Python like a pro.

📦 What’s Next?

Next up:
🔗 Python Basics – Variables, Strings, and Input Explained

🔁 Troubleshooting Tips