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Python on Ubuntu · Lesson 02 / 05

Editor, terminal and the right folder

Three windows may look alike while doing different jobs. Give each a role so you know where to write and where to run.

Learning paths12 min

Let's discover together

  1. 1

    In Files, create a new academy-python folder in a personal location and use “Open in Terminal” when available. Or type cd followed by the full quoted path. pwd confirms the folder; ls lists files. Names are case-sensitive: hello.py and Hello.py can be different files. Do not copy the $ prompt or use sudo to run exercises.

  2. 2

    In the practice folder, run python3 -m idlelib to open IDLE, or use its installed shortcut. In IDLE, File → New File opens the editor; the Shell window with >>> is for trying expressions. Close IDLE to release the terminal that opened it, or use another terminal.

  3. 3

    Starting python3 without a filename in the terminal can open the >>> prompt. There, type 2 + 3 to experiment; exit() leaves the interpreter started in the terminal. Commands such as cd and file execution belong in the system terminal. Closing IDLE’s Shell window is a separate action.

  4. 4

    You can also use another plain-text UTF-8 editor. If IDLE reports missing tkinter, check python3-full from Ubuntu’s official repositories and which interpreter is active. Do not install a similarly named package found at random.

PYTHON · ubuntu

From the browser to your computer

This page’s predictions use prepared examples. To practise for real, download the activity, extract it into a new folder and follow README.md one step at a time. Rullst Academy does not install or run Python on your computer.

Commands in your system’s terminal

pwd
ls
python3 -m idlelib
My files and GitHub

In the first two lessons, the editor keeps .md notes. Afterwards it keeps .py code. Download your edits to take them to another device; the ZIP contains starter material. GitHub publishing is optional and sends one file per operation, without sending your Python environment.

✦
YOUR MISSION

Create a practice folder and distinguish editor, terminal and Python prompt.

Now it's your turn

Discovery workshop

Prepare, observe and explain

Lia wants to save several lines to run tomorrow. She opened IDLE Shell but has not opened a file in the editor. Her terminal is in another folder. Choose where to write and how to check location.
Build your answers and check when you are ready.
A moment to understand

Should the >>> prompt be copied into the file?

I need a hint

Compare the tools, the file and the result. You do not need to guess.

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Take it with you

Open the practice folder, check your location and create an empty file in the editor. Explain where the file will be saved and where its output will appear when run.

At your own pace

My files and GitHub

Every lesson can become your own record: code, notes or a practice plan. Saving a file to GitHub is optional and does not change your XP.

Student guide

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