iPython Interpreter
iPython is an enhanced interpreter that makes interactive experimentation at the command line much more pleasant and powerful.
The very basics of IPython
IPython can do a lot for you, but for starters, here are the key pieces you’ll want to know:
Start it up
$ ipython
Python 3.5.0 (v3.5.0:374f501f4567, Sep 12 2015, 11:00:19)
Type "copyright", "credits" or "license" for more information.
IPython 4.0.0 -- An enhanced Interactive Python.
? -> Introduction and overview of IPython's features.
%quickref -> Quick reference.
help -> Python's own help system.
object? -> Details about 'object', use 'object??' for extra details.
This is the stuff I use every day:
command line recall:
hit the “up arrow” key
if you have typed a bit, it will find the last command that starts the same way.
basic shell commands:
ls
,cd
,pwd
any shell command:
! the_shell_command
pasting from the clipboard:
%paste
(this keeps whitespace cleaner for you)
getting help:
something?
tab completion:
something.<tab>
running a python file:
run the_name_of_the_file.py
That’s it – you can get a lot done with those.
iPython references
- The iPython tutorial
(http://ipython.readthedocs.io/en/stable/interactive/tutorial.html)
- Using IPython for interactive work
(http://ipython.readthedocs.io/en/stable/interactive/index.html) Learn about the abilities iPython provides for interactive sessions.
- The iPython Documentation
(http://ipython.readthedocs.io/en/stable/) Use this to learn more about iPython’s amazing capabilities.