Python is a high-level programming language known for its readable, pseudocode-like syntax — the default language for data science, machine learning, AI, and automation.
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By Guido van Rossum / Python Software Foundation
MIMEtext/x-python
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Python is a high-level programming language known for its readable, pseudocode-like syntax — the default language for data science, machine learning, AI, and automation. The language everyone's learning. Python became the world's most popular programming language not because it's the fastest or the most powerful, but because it reads like English. Indentation is syntax. Variable types are inferred. A script that fetches data from an API, cleans it, and plots a chart can fit on a single screen. TensorFlow, PyTorch, and pandas all speak Python first. It's also the go-to for web backends (Django, Flask) and university courses. The trade-off is speed: Python is interpreted, not compiled, and significantly slower than C or Rust for compute-heavy tasks. But for most work, developer time matters more than CPU time.
Technical details
Full Name
Python Script
MIME Type
text/x-python
Developer
Guido van Rossum / Python Software Foundation
Magic Bytes
N/A
Safety
.py requires caution. Python scripts can execute arbitrary code. Only run .py files from trusted sources.
What opens it
Any text editor
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VS Code
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PyCharm
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FAQ
How do I run a .py file?
Install Python from python.org, then open a terminal and type ‘python yourfile.py’ (or ‘python3 yourfile.py’ on macOS/Linux). On Windows, you can also double-click a .py file if Python is installed and associated with the extension.
What is the difference between Python and JavaScript?
Python dominates data science, AI, and automation. JavaScript dominates web browsers and front-end development. Python prioritises readability; JavaScript is event-driven and asynchronous. Both are beginner-friendly, but they solve different problems best.
Is a .py file safe to open?
Reading a .py file in a text editor is safe — it’s just text. Running it executes code that can do anything on your system: read files, install software, access the network. Only run .py files from sources you trust, and review the code first if you’re unsure.