Introduction

This guide will walk you through installing and setting up Python for use in the PyCharm IDE. The aim to get you set up and ready to work with Python in COMP-1510.

Python is a programming language developed by the Python Software Foundation. Because of its flexibility and simplicity, Python is well-suited for anyone looking to learn programming for the first time. Python is the first programming language CST students will learn at BCIT's Downtown Campus.

PyCharm is an integrated development environment (IDE) made by JetBrains studios. An IDE is an application designed for writing, testing, and running computer code. PyCharm is specifically designed for coding in Python.

Intended Users

This guide is intended for users with little to no experience with programming, and in particular first year CST students at BCIT’s Downtown Campus.

Prerequisites

Only basic computer literacy is required to follow this guide. Users will need a Windows, macOS, or Linux computer to use PyCharm. All other software will be installed as part of the guide.

Objectives

In this guide, you will:

• Install Python and PyCharm Professional.
• Configure PyCharm for COMP-1510.
• Write your first Python program.