IPython Introduction

You have installed IPython.

IPython is an advanced Python interpreter that offers enhancements.

You can read more about it in the official documentation.

Specifically, you’ll want to pay attention to the information about

Using IPython for Interactive Work.

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.