VS Code

When programming, we use tools that help us write code, manage files, and inspect results and errors. These tools include integrated development environments (IDEs) and code editors.

This guide uses Visual Studio Code, or VS Code, a free code editor from Microsoft. It is lightweight to get started with, and extensions bring the tools you need for Python development together in one place.

Installing VS Code

Visit the official VS Code download page and download the installer for your operating system.

macOS

Download the macOS .dmg file.
Open the disk image, then drag Visual Studio Code.app into Applications.
Launch Visual Studio Code from Applications or Spotlight.

Windows

Download the Windows User Installer.
Run the downloaded .exe file.
Follow the installation instructions, then launch Visual Studio Code.

Installing the Python extension

VS Code uses extensions to add language-specific features. The Python extension provides tools such as code completion, error checking, and debugging.

Select the Extensions icon on the left side of VS Code.
- On macOS, you can also press Command + Shift + X.
- On Windows and Linux, press Ctrl + Shift + X.
Search for Python.
Select the Python extension published by Microsoft.
Select Install.

The Python extension is not Python itself

The extension adds Python development features to VS Code. You still need to install Python on your computer to run Python code. We cover this in Installing Python.

Exercises

Decide whether each statement is True or False.

VS Code is a free code editor made by Microsoft.
Installing the VS Code Python extension automatically installs Python itself.
The Python extension adds features such as code completion and debugging.

Answers and explanations

True — We use the free VS Code editor as our development tool.
False — The extension adds editor features. You must install the Python runtime separately.
True — The extension provides completion, error checking, and debugging tools.