Installing and Using Python 3

There are two different versions of Python: Python 2 and Python 3. The two are not compatible, so it's important to make sure that you have the right Python installed on your computer. It's not too difficult.

Before doing any serious installations or modifications of your computer, it's always a good idea to make a backup.

Then, once you're ready...

Install MiniConda

We're going to be using the Miniconda distribution of Python3, which you can get at https://docs.conda.io/en/latest/miniconda.html. Click on the appropriate link for your computer, download the installer, and run it to get the Miniconda Python3 installed on your computer.

Check to see that Python3 is installed

Once the installation has been finished, open up a macOS Terminal or a Windows Ubuntu shell and enter:

$ python --version

You should get an indication that Python3 is able to be used: