How to Run a Python Script - GeeksforGeeks

How to Run a Python Script

Last Updated : 22 Sep, 2026

A Python script is a file containing Python code saved with the .py extension. It can be executed using the Python interpreter through the command line, interactive mode, text editors, or IDEs.

Example: Run a Python Script

Input: print("Hello World!")
Output: Hello World!
Explanation: The print() function displays the message when the Python script is executed.

Ways to Run a Python Script

Python scripts can be executed using the following methods:

  • Interactive Mode
  • Command Line
  • VS Code
  • PyCharm

Using Interactive Mode

Python Interactive Mode allows you to execute Python statements directly in the interpreter. Open Command Prompt or Terminal, type python, and press Enter.

Example 1: Using Print Function

Run the following line in the interactive mode:

print('Hello World !')

Output:

cmd

Explanation:

  • python starts the Python interpreter.
  • The print() statement is executed immediately.
  • The result is displayed in the terminal.

Example 2: Using Interactive Execution

Run the following lines one by one in the interactive mode.

name = "Aakash"
print("My name is " + name)

Output:

IDE

Explanation:

  • The if statement checks whether a is greater than b.
  • Since 1 is not greater than 3, the else block executes.
  • The result is displayed using print().

Example 3: Interactive Mode Comparison

Run the following lines one by one in the interactive mode.

a = 1
b = 3
if a > b:
print("a is Greater")
else:
print("b is Greater")

Output:

Explanation:

  • The python command starts the Python interpreter.
  • hello.py specifies the Python script to execute.
  • The script output is displayed in the terminal.

Note: To exit from this mode, press ‘Ctrl+Z’ and then press ‘Enter’ or type ‘exit()’ and then press Enter.

2. Run Python Script by the Command Line

Running Python scripts on Windows via the command line provides a direct and efficient way to execute code. It allows for easy navigation to the script's directory and initiation, facilitating quick testing and automation.

Example 1: Using Script Filename

Save the Python code in a file named hello.py:

python hello.py

Output:

Explanation:

  • The python command starts the Python interpreter.
  • hello.py specifies the Python script to execute.
  • The script output is displayed in the terminal.

Example 2: Redirecting output

The > operator can be used to save the output of a Python script to a file.

Output :

comand-line-
Output

Explanation:

  • The > operator redirects the script output.
  • The output is written to output.txt.

3. Run a Script in Python using a Text Editor

A Python script can be created and executed using a text editor such as VS Code. Follow these steps:

  • Go to the Extensions section or press Ctrl+Shift+X on Windows.
  • Search for and install the Python extension.
  • Create a new file named hello.py.
  • Add the following code:
print('Hello World!')
  • Then, right-click anywhere in the text area and select the option that says ‘Run Code’ or press ‘Ctrl+Alt+N’ to run the code.

Output:

Explanation:

  • The Python extension provides Python support in VS Code.
  • The Run Python File option executes the selected .py file.
  • The output is displayed in the terminal.

4. Run Python Scripts using an IDE

A Python script can also be executed using an IDE (Integrated Development Environment) such as PyCharm. Follow these steps:

  • Create a new project.
  • Give the project a name such as GfG and click Create.
  • Right-click the project directory, select New, and choose Python File.
  • Enter hello as the file name. PyCharm automatically adds the .py extension.


Output:

Explanation:

  • PyCharm uses the Python interpreter configured for the project.
  • The Run option executes the selected Python file.
  • The output is displayed in the PyCharm console.

Note: You don’t have to specify the extension as it will take it automatically.

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