python for Data Science.md

Starter Kit & Resources

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1) Install Python

Download and install the latest stable Python 3.14 from:
https://www.python.org/downloads/

Important

Windows: during installation, check “Add Python to PATH” on the first screen.

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Verify Python and pip

Open a terminal (Command Prompt / PowerShell / Terminal) and run:

python --version
# On macOS/Linux you may need: python3 --version

pip --version
# If this fails, try: python -m pip --version

Common Issues

“python is not recognized” (Windows)

Python was not added to PATH. Reinstall Python and check Add to PATH, or add it manually.

“pip not found”

Use:

python -m pip --version
# Use pip via python -m

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2) IDEs/Editor

You can any IDE/code editor. VS Code is preferred

VS Code

• Lightweight and popular for Python development
• Works great with virtual environments

Important

Regardless of IDE, always make sure it uses the Python interpreter from your .venv (the respective virtual environment).

Other tools

Git, download and install Git Version Control

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3) Databases (SQLite + PostgreSQL)

SQLite (built-in)

SQLite requires no server setup. Python includes sqlite3 by default.

PostgreSQL (optional / when needed)

If you want PostgreSQL locally, install it from:
https://www.postgresql.org/download/

Python driver for PostgreSQL:

python -m pip install psycopg2-binary

or

pip install psycopg2-binary

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4) Accounts

Create or use an Azure account

An account at azure is needed

Create or use a github account

Create a Github account