[docs] How do I install an interpreter?

[Tim Golden]

On 12/05/2016 20:46, Slater, John wrote:
> Hello,
>
> I’m in a bit of a pickle, so this is both a request and a doc bug report
> (possibly). Full disclosure: I can’t code my way out of a wet paper bag.
> I’ve been given a somewhat critical python script to run on my windows
> box. I found this:
>
> https://docs.python.org/2/faq/windows.html
>
> And I got to the step where it says:
>
> You should then see something like:
>
> Python 2.7.3 (default, Apr 10 2012, 22.71:26) [MSC v.1500 32 bit
> (Intel)] on win32
>
> Type "help", "copyright", "credits" or "license" for more information.
>
>>>>
>
> Well, I don’t see that. So I’m guessing an interpreter isn’t installed.
> Where do I get one?
>
> Additionally: I would suggest your documentation needs a fork there that
> says: “Don’t see something like this? Click here”
>
> Just a helpful suggestion from a lost n00b.
>
> Also, if you could get me some help on where to get an interpreter, that
> would be great too.

John,

You need to go to the Python downloads page:

https://www.python.org/downloads/

Select either 2.7.11 or 3.5.1 depending on whether you need Python 2 or 
Python 3. (They're very similar but there are differences and the 
chances are that any significant script will run with only one of them).

You'll then download get a typical installation package from which you 
can install Python. Having done that you can go back to the docs you 
were working from and you should see the interpreter.

If things don't work, can I suggest you head over to the Python tutor list:

   https://mail.python.org/mailman/listinfo/tutor

and ask there. This particular list (the docs@ address) is more for 
discussion about the documentation itself.

If you don't know which version to use (and if whoever gave you the 
script can't tell you) then post all or part of it here to the Tutor 
list and we can probably tell you which one you want.

TJG