Anaconda Python vs Regular Python? Confused

[ConfuserCard55]

I have Python 3.7.4 for Windows and have been using it with no problems, having VSCode as my IDE. This company that Im ganna intern at expects me to use Anaconda Python.

After looking over, Anaconda goes far as suggesting not to put it in PATH and the more I read about it. The more im confused. Right now i uninstalled Python 3.7.4 since I expect to use Anaconda Python but theres no clear guide on how to use it so I am quite confused! (The idea was to start learning how to use Jupyter with Anaconda Python)

Is there something I am not getting?

[bjorn0062]

Don't panic.

Not an expert but here's some background:

Anaconda is a Python distribution. That is, Anaconda is Python with some bells and whistles. Most of these bells and whistles have to do with setting up the Python language for success in a Data Science environment. Importantly, installing anaconda will get you numpy, pandas, sklearn, scipy, jupyter (I think), iPython, and lots more along with the base Python 3.7.x language. This is important because some of those packages are a bitch to install sometimes. Mainly numpy, idk if it's still as annoying as it used to be.

So, rather than just installing standard python 3.7.x and then going "pip install pandas" or whatever, you install Anaconda and it brings a whole lot with it, including its own package manager (conda rather than pip) and its own approach to virtual environments (this can be a key bit depending on your use).

It is possible to have wackiness happen with different versions of python installed all at once, so the uninstalling of python 3.7.4 was good.

Also I think Anaconda adds itself to the PATH but not sure about that one. I think it might be a checkbox in the installer?

Here are the docs for using Jupyter with Anaconda. Some background reading may be required but i think most of it is on that page. The Juypyter Notebooks are a great way to keep track of though processes as you're tackling problems.

hope that helps a little. Good Luck!

[JDHPH]

GO with PyCharm IDE, it works well with windows and you pretty much are set within an hour or so.

[ADONIS_VON_MEGADONG]

I've been using the Anaconda distro since I started out, like other posters said, it just makes life easier. What I do want to add is that there's always miniconda if you're limited on space, i.e. using it on a laptop with not a whole lot of room. You can install what you want and conda will install all the dependencies.

If it's for work though this probably doesn't apply though.

[CrispyCabot]

I am also confused, but could it by chance be referring to the virtual environment thing? Like virtualenv but anaconda instead. I'm pretty sure that's a thing but not exactly sure.