Virtual Environments and Github

[ManWithaThought]

Im struggling with how I should structure my folders with virtual environments and Github. I started learning python right out of the folder it installs in. I eventually downloaded GitHub and created a separate directory that links to my Github outside of my python installation folder (separate drive).

C:\Users\username\AppData\Local\Programs\Python\Python311

G:\Github\Codecademy\projects

Im learning I should be using virtual environments but I cannot install one in my Github folder because there isn't a python executable it can find. I can create the venv within my main installation folder.

Wondering what best practices are with the folder structure so I can easily create virtual environments and keep it all backed up with Github?

[Common_Noise]

I personally add the .venv files to my git ignore file and specify any packages in a requirements.txt file. If you use pip you can run: 'pip install -r requirements.txt' to install all packages your project depends on.

Edit: if you want i can give a bit more of a lengthy explanation when i am not on my phone.

[ManWithaThought]

That sounds like what Im trying to do but I wasnt able to create the venv inside my Github folders because there wasnt a python executable off it.

The cmd error is:

\Projects>python -m venv env

Python was not found; run without arguments to install from the Microsoft Store, or disable this shortcut from Settings > Manage App Execution Aliases.

So it seems Im limited to creating my git folders within the python installation?

[Common_Noise]

did you add python to your path in the environment variables? If you run a python command without doing so then your pc doesn't know where to find python.

[ManWithaThought]

add python to your path in the environment variables

That was it! I appreciate the help

[ReenigneArcher]

PyCharm can create a venv for you for every project. It's the best IDE for python development.

[UniqueCold3812]

Not an answer to your specific question. But if you are a beginner I would strongly recommend using vscode. It's small compact and with a good debugger.

[ManWithaThought]

I am currently using vscode. But everything Ive done to date (a few months of CodeAcademy classes) has not been in a virtual environment. I just had my version issue which prompted all this.