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CS200 VSCode and Python Setup Guide

Installing VSCode

In this class, we will be using Visual Studio Code (VSCode) as our primary code editing app for Python. Please follow the instructions on this official website for how to set up the software on your computer. Next, we will set up the IDE (Integrated Development Environment, i.e. code editing app) for our purposes.

Post questions on EdStem (you can post publicly regarding the setup questions) if you have any troubles or questions setting up the software! We’re happy to help.

You may use a different IDE if you wish, but note that our staff will only support / help with VSCode.

Downloading Python

This course will be using Python version 3.7.x-3.9.x (inclusive). You can check which version of Python you have installed by running python3 --version in your terminal / command prompt. If you do not have Python 3 installed, you can follow the instructions on this website to download the correct version for your device (please do not install versions outside of those specified previously as they will not work with the stencil code provided).

If you need to change the default version of Python on VSCode please follow the following steps:

  • On the bottom ribbon of the screen, you can check to what version of Python your VSCode supports.
  • Next, click the Python version in the above image at which point you will be guided to select the version of Python you would like to work with.

    Above: Please select a Python version between 3.7.x-3.9.x (inclusive)

Download the VSCode Python Extension

In addition to downloading the software, please download the Python extension on VSCode as well. Follow the steps below to download the extension:

  1. Go to the “Extensions” tab on VSCode (located on the lefthand side of the IDE).
  2. Search “Python” in the 'Search Extensions in MarketPlace'. You’ll see three options popping up at the top.
  3. Select the one that includes the word “Pylance” in the description, and install it (the first option in the following screenshot).

Once you have that extension installed, you should be set to code in VSCode! When writing in Python, remember to have your file end in .py (example.py).

Please let us know if you find any mistakes, inconsistencies, or confusing language in this or any other CS200 document by filling out the anonymous feedback form! (you do have to sign in but we don't see it)

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