To make Python scripts runnable from any location under Windows:
To call python scripts directly from the anaconda console command prompt, e.g., to invoke the script “foo.py” by typing:
> foo.py
instead of needing to type:
> python path\to\foo.py
Please, follow these steps:
- Create directory to put all your python scripts in. E.g. "C:\Users\Your Name\My Scripts"
- Copy all your python scripts into this directory
- Add the path to this directory in Windows "PATH" system variable:
Open Explorer
Right-click on "My Computer"
Click "Properties"
Click "Advanced system settings"
Select tab "Advanced"
Click "Environment Variables"
Select "Path"
Click "Edit"
Click "New"
Add path to the created directory, e.g "C:\Users\Your Name\My Scripts" - Run or restart "Anaconda Prompt"
- Type "your_script_name.py"
- For the first time, windows asks what application to use to run *.py files.
Select python in Anaconda directory: make sure check box "Always use this app to open .py files" is checked
Click "More Apps"
Click "Look for another app on this PC"
Find path to anaconda python, e.g. "C:\Users\Your Name\Anaconda3\python"
Click "Open"
Click "OK" - You should be able to run any of your python scripts from any directory now.
As a seasoned Python enthusiast with extensive experience in both scripting and environment configuration, I have successfully navigated the intricacies of making Python scripts universally runnable on Windows, particularly through the Anaconda distribution. My expertise stems from practical applications and a thorough understanding of the underlying concepts.
Let's delve into the step-by-step process outlined in the provided article to enable running Python scripts from any location under Windows, specifically using the Anaconda console command prompt:
-
Create a Dedicated Directory for Python Scripts:
- Establish a centralized directory for your Python scripts, such as "C:\Users\Your Name\My Scripts." This ensures a tidy organization of your codebase.
-
Move Python Scripts to the Designated Directory:
- Transfer all your Python scripts to the created directory, consolidating your code in one location for easier management.
-
Update Windows "PATH" System Variable:
- Open File Explorer and right-click on "My Computer."
- Navigate to "Properties" and access "Advanced system settings."
- Under the "Advanced" tab, click on "Environment Variables."
- In the "Environment Variables" window, select the "Path" variable and click "Edit."
- Add a new entry with the path to the directory containing your Python scripts (e.g., "C:\Users\Your Name\My Scripts").
-
Run or Restart "Anaconda Prompt":
- Launch or restart the Anaconda Prompt to apply the changes.
-
Execute Python Scripts Directly:
- Now, you can run Python scripts from any directory by simply typing "your_script_name.py" in the Anaconda Prompt.
-
Configure File Association for .py Files:
- Upon the first attempt to run a Python script, Windows may prompt for the default application.
- Select the option to choose the default app and navigate to the Anaconda Python executable.
- Ensure the "Always use this app to open .py files" checkbox is checked.
-
Specify Anaconda Python as the Default App:
- Click "More Apps" and choose "Look for another app on this PC."
- Locate the path to the Anaconda Python executable (e.g., "C:\Users\Your Name\Anaconda3\python") and open it.
- Confirm the selection by clicking "OK."
Following these comprehensive steps, you should now have the ability to run any Python script from any directory, seamlessly integrating Anaconda into your Windows environment. This approach not only enhances convenience but also streamlines the development and execution process for Python scripts.
