HomeProgrammingSet up a Python project with a virtual environment
Programming guide

Set up a Python project with a virtual environment

Create an isolated Python environment for each project, install packages cleanly and record dependencies so the project runs on any machine.

Estimated time: 20–30 minutesUpdated: 28 September 2026

Use this guide when starting a new Python project or when package conflicts are breaking your code. You need Python 3 installed and a terminal or command prompt.

Step by step

  1. Check your Python version

    Open a terminal and run python3 --version, or py --version on Windows. Make sure you are using a supported Python version for the libraries you need. Note the version so others can match it.

Members

The rest of this guide is for members

The rest of this guide – the remaining steps, a ready-to-use checklist, practical tips and fixes for common problems – is for members. Membership unlocks every ABCDayZ guide.

£3.99 for 1 month or £29 for 12 months. One payment, no automatic renewal.

Unlock all guides

Already a member on another device? Open your personal access link. Bought Programming with AI? Your first month is included.

Related guides

ProgrammingRead an error message and stack trace calmlyProgrammingResolve a Git merge conflict safelyTopic hubMore from Programming