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Python on Ubuntu · Lesson 01 / 05

Python on Ubuntu: the first step

Before writing programs, discover the tool that turns a file into a running program. A version on screen is initial evidence, not the end of setup.

Learning paths12 min

Let's discover together

  1. 1

    This course uses Ubuntu Desktop 24.04 LTS or a later supported release, with Python 3.11 or later. Open Terminal from the applications menu and try python3 --version. System Python may already exist; that does not mean every learning component is installed. You do not need to switch distributions to read the course.

  2. 2

    To prepare the environment, run sudo apt update and, when it finishes without error, sudo apt install python3-full. Read the confirmation before accepting. This package includes the complete standard library, IDLE and virtual-environment support. sudo may ask for your computer password without displaying characters. Ask the administrator on a managed machine.

  3. 3

    Use python3; do not assume python points to the same version. Do not remove Ubuntu’s Python, change the /usr/bin/python3 link or use sudo pip. This workshop needs no external packages. If the version is older than 3.11, stop and plan setup with help; do not replace system Python by trial and error.

  4. 4

    Python interprets code; IDLE is an editor with an interactive window. sys.executable shows the running program, but its path can contain your name: use it only for local checking. The Rullst Academy page installs nothing.

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.

Install only if needed

Follow the installation instructions above for this system first. Use the commands below at the indicated step; stop if an error occurs and consult the official reference.

sudo apt update
sudo apt install python3-full
python3 --version

Commands in your system’s terminal

python3 --version
python3 -c "import sys; print(sys.executable)"
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

Install when needed and check the version and interpreter.

Now it's your turn

Discovery workshop

Prepare, observe and explain

You are preparing Ubuntu. Imagine the query shows Python 3.14.7: the exact number can change. This confirms the command found an interpreter; you still need to save and run a file.
Build your answers and check when you are ready.
A moment to understand

Does seeing the version prove your first file is saved?

I need a hint

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

Loading your journey…

Take it with you

Record the version and working command without publishing the interpreter’s personal path. If a tool is missing, record the problem and use the linked official guide.

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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Rullstpetbot

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