Member Avatar for grisha83

Hello,
I am new to Python.
I am trying to start writing some simple programs in it.
Which IDE would you suggest? I am currently using NeatBeans for my Java programs but i don't think i can use it for Python
P.S. I am using Mac OS X 10.5.7
Thank you

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  • Latest Post Latest Post by vegaseat

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A few practical pointers for based on the short answers so far: deciding between a full IDE and a light editor+terminal is the first step. rightly favoured the lightweight learning approach and pointed to Python-specific GUI tools — both are valid depending on whether you want automated help (completion, refactoring, debugger) or to learn by reading docs and using the REPL.

When evaluating environments, prioritize these features:

  • an interactive console / REPL for quick experiments
  • an integrated debugger (breakpoints, step, inspect)
  • virtual environment support and easy package installation
  • syntax checking / code completion to accelerate learning
  • decent file/project navigation and VCS support

A few options to consider (not mentioned above), chosen to cover beginner→advanced needs: the stock interpreter/editor that ships with Python for very simple starts; a modern, full-featured IDE with strong code analysis and debugger for larger projects; and lighter editors that pair with a terminal when you want speed and flexibility. Each has tradeoffs: full IDEs help avoid common mistakes, editors keep you closer to the command line and tools.

Practical workflow tips: install a current Python 3 from python.org, use venv/virtualenv to isolate projects, run short experiments in the REPL before coding files, and learn to run the debugger early. On an older Mac (10.5.x) check each tool’s system requirements or use older releases; if upgrading the OS is an option it will open up more modern tooling.

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Member Avatar for sillyboy

you could try eclipse, with some plug-in if you want a fully featured IDE.

what i do personally, is usually use it notepad++, which provides basic syntax highlighting. in a learning process there is nothing better than actually making use of the references and not relying on auto-complete.

Member Avatar for grisha83

Thank you

Member Avatar for vegaseat

I think there is a Python plugin available for NetBeans.
Another good IDE is DrPython that is wxPython based, clean and quick, and works on Windows, Linux, and Mac Unix.

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