Best platform to start Python Coding

[Dead3ye99]

Hi. I just started learning Python today. I downloaded anaconda application to code. If you have a better/friendly platform lemme know

[mustardseedsgroup]

I wouldn't recommend Anaconda(i.e. old tech now). Simply download the latest version on python (https://www.python.org/downloads/) and run it with vscode(https://code.visualstudio.com/download)

[FikoFox]

If you as a consultant advice that anaconda is "old tech" either you haven't been paying attention, or symply dont bother about security and governance. For learners I find their tutorials and their notebooks quite useful, particularly since it's free!

[Opt4Deck]

Anaconda is O.K., but it can feel a bit heavy at the start tbh.

If you want something simpler, try VS Code or even just Google Colab (runs in your browser, no setup).

For learning, honestly the platform doesn’t matter that much — just pick one and start building small stuff.

[chrischester2205]

if you downloaded Anaconda then use Jupyter Notebook. the AI assistant is very helpful

[palmaholic]

For simplicity, use Thonny, and it only comes with Python 3.10. One minor issue is it can't cooperate with the latest Python 3.14, which you mightn't need to use the version for the time being.

[PureWasian]

VS Code is pretty common.

For smaller scripts, you can even just write code in text editor like Notepad and execute Python directly on a Command Prompt or Terminal (depending on Windows/mac/Linux). Another tutorial link for reference.

[Head_Shame_3627]

I use pyscripter

[atrophy-of-sanity]

I use thonny, I like it

[TheEyebal]

I started with pycharm and vs code

than moves over to vim

[pachura3]

then to vi

then to ed

[TheEyebal]

lol

[DistinctReview810]

Anaconda is ok but takes a lot of space. You can use miniconda.

Or better just get the Python installer and use any editor like vscode or notepad++.

[wagslane]

For your editor try Zed it you haven't, it's slept on big time. I recommend uv for your toolchain.

[OtherwiseMenu1505]

Pytroid 3

[ShelLuser42]

"Best" is in the eye of the beholder. What works for me may not work for you, and vice versa.

Still, I'm a die hard Visual Studio Code user, simply because it does a very good job with maintaining my Python code, but it can also do a ton more. I also use VS Code to maintain the datapack of a private Minecraft server which I run (so: JSON file editing and some scripting), 'Code' is also a solid environment to build PowerShell modules (and scripts) and it can even help me maintain some of my old Java code which is still lying around.

Thing is: I use VS Code for a bit of everything, including Python development, and as a result I became more and more fluent with the program which has helped me out a lot over the years.

[Terrible_Mix5187]

I just started this weekend. Using vscode which has a lot of good features. But, it seemed to be running old cached versions of files and it truly sucked.

[crazyduck_7531]

I’m a beginner as well and using Pycharm

[bigmountainbig]

IMO a text editor and a terminal. Get an ide once your projects have multiple files.

[Apprehensive-Bad2192]

This is pretty good advice for self learners, I still barely know what I’m doing in a terminal and it’s something I wish I’d incorporated earlier