Run One Python Script From Another in Python - GeeksforGeeks (2024)

In Python, we can run one file from another using the import statement for integrating functions or modules, exec() function for dynamic code execution, subprocess module for running a script as a separate process, or os.system() function for executing a command to run another Python file within the same process. In this article, we will explore all the specified approaches to make one Python file run another.

Run One Python Script From Another in Python

Below are some of the ways by which we can make one Python file run another in Python:

• Using import Statement
• Using exec() Function
• Using subprocess Module
• Using os.system() Function

Make One Python File Run Another Using Import Module

In this example, file_2.py imports functions from file_1.py using the import statement. By calling the imported function in file_2.py (file_1.printing()), the code executes the printing() function defined in file_1.py, allowing for the integration and execution of code from one file within another.

# file_1.py# creating functiondef printing(): print("Hello world!")

# file_2.py# importing file_1import file_1# calling function of file_1.py form file_2.pyfile_1.printing()

Output:

Run One Python Script From Another Using exec() Function

In this example, file_2.py opens and reads the file_1.py, by ‘with‘ statement using the ‘open‘ function it opens file_1.py, and the ‘read‘ function reads the file_1.py. The code read from file_1.py will be executed by using the exec() function within file_2.py.

# file_1.py# printing hello world!print("Hello world!")

# file_2.py# opening file_1.py and reading it with read() and executing if with exec()with open("file_1.py") as file: exec(file.read())

Output:

Python Run One Script From Another Using subprocess Module

In this example, file_2.py imports the subprocess module using the import statement. By using run() function Python script in “file_1.py” will be executed as a separate process within file_2.py.

# file_1.py# printing This is file_1 content.print("This is file_1 content.")

# file_2.py# importing subprocess module import subprocess# running other file using run()subprocess.run(["python", "file_1.py"])

Output:

Run One Python Script From Another Using os.system() Function

In this example, file_2.py imports the os module using the import statement. Then using os.system() to execute the command “python file_1.py” and file_1.py will run within the same process but in a separate system shell.

# file_1.py# printing This is file_1 content.print("This is file_1 content.")

# file_2.py# importing os moduleimport os# running other file using run()os.system("python file_1.py")

Output:

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding how to make one Python file run another is a useful skill for writing organized and modular code. Using the import statement and grasping the concept of modules allows for improved code reusability. Incorporating functions and classes enhances the structure and readability of your code. Remembering to organize files and follow naming conventions is essential for a collaborative development process. In essence, mastering these techniques helps you create well-structured and scalable Python applications.

Run One Python Script From Another in Python – FAQs

How to Run a Python Script from Another Python Script

You can run a Python script from another Python script in several ways, depending on what suits your needs:

1. Using exec() Function: This function can execute a script contained within a string or file.
2. Using import: If the script is a module, you can import functions or classes and then call them.
3. Using subprocess Module: This method allows you to run the script as a separate process.

filename = ‘script2.py’
with open(filename) as file:
exec(file.read())

See Also

How to Use Windows Command Prompt to Run a Python File

import script2
script2.main() # Assuming there’s a function named ‘main’ in script2.py

import subprocess
subprocess.run([‘python’, ‘script2.py’])

How Do I Run a Python Script with a Different Version of Python?

To run a Python script using a specific version of Python, especially if multiple versions are installed on your system, you can specify the Python interpreter you want to use:

python3.8 script.py # For Unix/Linux/Mac
py -3.8 script.py # For Windows, if using Python Launcher

How to Combine Two Python Scripts to Run as One Program

To combine two Python scripts into one program, you can refactor them to function as modules. Import necessary functions or classes from one script into another:

1. Modify both scripts to include functions: Wrap the code in each script in functions.
2. Main script calls functions from both: In your main script, import these functions and call them.

from script1 import function1
from script2 import function2

function1()
function2()

How Do I Connect Two Python Scripts?

Connecting two Python scripts typically involves making one script a module from which the other script imports functionality:

1. Turn one script into a module: Ensure the script has functions that can be imported.
2. Import and use functions or classes from one script to another:

# In your main script
from other_script import some_function
result = some_function()

How Do I Make a Python Script Executable on Another Computer?

To make a Python script executable on another computer:

1. Ensure Python is Installed: The target machine needs to have Python installed, or you can create an executable using tools like PyInstaller.
2. Write a Shebang Line: At the top of your script, add #!/usr/bin/env python3 to indicate which interpreter to use.
3. Change File Permission (Unix/Linux/Mac): Make the script executable.
4. Create a Standalone Executable:
   • Use PyInstaller:This command creates a standalone executable that can be run without needing Python installed on the target system.

chmod +x script.py

pip install pyinstaller
pyinstaller –onefile script.py