What you need

To complete the activities within this course, you will need to be able to create and run Python 3 programs.

All the resources required to complete this course can be used for free.

Python

To create Python programs, you need a text editor to write your code and a Python interpreter. You write the code into the text editor and the interpreter executes your code on the computer.

An editor, interpreter, and other useful tools (e.g. a file browser) are often bundled together into an Integrated Development Environment (IDE). IDEs make creating programs much easier.

If you require advice about the options for using Python or instructions for installing Python, please review our guidance on Applications for creating Python programs.

What I use

During the course, I will use the Python editor Mu (Alpha), as the simple interface helps when presenting.

Note: You do not have to use the same as me.

Getting ready to start can often be the hardest task. Take some time now to find a solution that works for you. Make sure that you have Python ready to go before you continue with this course.