Learn to Execute Python in the Shell: A Beginner's Guide
Hi everybody!
In this article, we’ll discuss how to use Python in the shell—or to be more precise, how to use Python in the REPL.
These two terms are often used interchangeably, but they are not exactly the same. I’ve already explained the clear difference between a Shell and a REPL in my previous article.
👇(https://share.google/RFDbenXUXruU1DKED)
Why Do We Use Python in the Shell?
The first question you might have is:
📌Why should we use Python in the shell? What’s the need?
The answer is simple.
👉We use Python in the shell mainly to:
Quickly check outputs
Test small pieces of code
Clear doubts before writing code in the main file
This helps us catch mistakes early and avoid unnecessary errors in our actual program.
📌How to Use Python in the Shell (REPL)
👉Follow these steps:
Go to the folder where your Python files are present.
Right-click on the folder and choose “Open in Integrated Terminal.”
Type:
python on Windows
python3 on Mac
Press Enter — you are now inside the Python REPL.
📌Importing Files Inside the REPL
To access any Python file inside the folder, simply write:
import (space) filename
Once imported, you can access variables, functions, or classes defined inside that file.
Important Points to Note
1️⃣ Changes Made After Import Will NOT Reflect Automatically
If you modify a file after importing it, the new changes will not be available automatically in the REPL.
Example:
Suppose you add this to first.py:
username = "Riya"
If you try in the REPL:
first.username
You’ll get an error like:
module 'first' has no attribute 'username'
This happens because Python has already loaded the old version of the file.
2️⃣ Reload the Module to See Updates
To reload the file, do this:
from importlib import reload
reload(module name), here module name: first
⚠️ Important:
Do not write the .py extension.
Use only the module name.
Now, if you run:
first.username
You’ll get:
'Riya'
3️⃣ How to Exit the Python REPL
Windows: Ctrl + Z → Enter
Mac/Linux: Ctrl + D
4️⃣ How to Clear the Python REPL
Windows:
import os
os.system('cls')
Mac / Linux:
import os
os.system('clear')
📌Final Thoughts
Using Python in the REPL is a very powerful habit, especially when learning Python or debugging code.
It allows you to experiment freely without breaking your main program.
If you’re a beginner, spending time in the Python REPL will significantly improve your understanding of how Python works.
Happy coding! 🐍✨
📌You can refer to this video from chai and code which helped me to learn this concept 👉 https://youtu.be/OEKrDogH5ew?si=52ngKBGtN_mcDc7f
