Python programs can be run using the Command Prompt (CMD).

This method is widely used by Python developers because it is simple and fast.

After writing and saving a Python program, you can execute it directly from the Command Prompt.

Running Python programs from the Command Prompt provides several benefits.

• Run Python files directly.
• Practice Python without opening IDLE every time.
• Understand how Python works from the terminal.
• Work like professional Python developers.

You can open the Command Prompt in different ways.

Method 1

1. Press Windows + R.
2. Type cmd.
3. Press Enter.

Method 2

1. Open the Start Menu.
2. Search for Command Prompt.
3. Open it.

Before running a Python program, move to the folder where the file is saved.

Use the cd command to change the current directory.

Current directory changed to D:\DurgaClasses

Suppose your file name is demo.py.

Run it using the following command:

The Python program starts executing.

You can also run the same program using the py command.

Both commands work in the same way.

The Python program starts executing.

Python Shell	Python File (.py)
Runs one or two lines of code.	Runs complete Python programs.
Useful for testing syntax.	Useful for projects and large programs.
Does not save the program.	Programs can be saved and reused.
Good for quick calculations.	Good for real applications.

• Fast program execution.
• Easy to run saved Python files.
• No need to open IDLE every time.
• Commonly used in real-world development.
• Works well with automation and scripts.

1. Running the command from the wrong folder.

Always move to the folder where your Python file is saved.

2. Using the wrong file name.

Make sure the file name is correct before running it.

3. Using the wrong file extension.

Python programs must always be saved with the .py extension.

Command	Purpose
python	Start Python Shell.
py	Start Python Shell.
python filename.py	Run a Python program.
py filename.py	Run a Python program.
exit()	Close the Python Shell.

• Save the Python program before running it.
• Always use the .py extension.
• Move to the correct folder using the cd command.
• Both python and py can run Python programs.
• Command Prompt is commonly used in professional Python development.

Topic	Description
Terminal	Command Prompt (CMD)
Change Directory	cd folder_name
Run Program	python filename.py
Alternative Command	py filename.py
Python File Extension	.py