Getting Started with Python and Pandas

If you’re attending one of our Python workshops — or just want to start exploring data on your own — here’s how to get set up.

Install Python

The easiest way to get Python with data science libraries is through Miniconda. It gives you Python and a package manager in one install.

1. Download Miniconda for your operating system
2. Run the installer and follow the prompts
3. Open a terminal and verify: python --version

Install Pandas

With Miniconda installed, getting Pandas is one command:

conda install pandas

Or if you’re using pip:

pip install pandas

Verify Your Setup

Open a Python shell and try:

import pandas as pd
df = pd.DataFrame({'name': ['Alice', 'Bob'], 'score': [92, 87]})
print(df)

If that runs without errors, you’re ready.

What’s Next

Come to an upcoming workshop and put your setup to use. We’ll work through real datasets together, and you’ll walk out with skills you can apply right away.