Setting up a local environment helps you manage Python projects efficiently. Follow these steps to create an isolated Python environment on Windows.

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Step 1: Install Python

1. Download the latest version from Python’s official website.
2. Run the installer and check the box “Add Python to PATH”.
3. Verify installation in Command Prompt (CMD):

   python --version
   

   pip --version
   

   If Python and pip return their versions, you’re good to go.

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Step 2: Install Virtual Environment (venv)

A virtual environment prevents dependency conflicts between projects.

1. Create a new project folder:

   mkdir my_project
   cd my_project
   

2. Create a virtual environment:

   python -m venv env
   

   This will create an env/ folder inside your project.

3. Activate the virtual environment:

   env\Scripts\activate
   

   Once activated, (env) should appear before your command prompt.

4. Deactivate the environment (when done):

   deactivate
   

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Step 3: Install Packages Using pip

Inside your virtual environment, install necessary libraries:

pip install numpy pandas matplotlib

To list installed packages:

pip list

To save dependencies for later:

pip freeze > requirements.txt

To install them on another system:

pip install -r requirements.txt

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Step 4: Install an IDE (Optional)

Use an IDE for better coding experience:

• VS Code (Download)
• PyCharm (Download)

For VS Code:

1. Install the Python extension from the Extensions Marketplace.
2. Select the correct Python interpreter (Ctrl + Shift + P → Python: Select Interpreter).

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Step 5: Running a Python Script

Create a file app.py and write:

print("Hello, Python Environment!")

Run it:

python app.py

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✅ You’re all set! Your Python environment is ready to go. 🎉

Would you like help setting up Jupyter Notebook or Conda? 😊