How do i change python path in mac terminal?

I would like to change my PATH from Python 2.6.1 to 3.1.2. I have both versions installed on my computer, but when I type python --version in the terminal I get Python 2.6.1. So, thats the current version it's "pointing" to. Now if I type python3.1 it loads the version I want to use, although the PATH is still pointing to 2.6.1. Downloaded along with the Python 3.1 package comes an Update Shell Profile.command - when I run it and then run nano ~/.bash_profile it says:

Setting PATH for Python 3.1 the orginal version is saved in .bash_profile.pysave PATH="/Library/Frameworks/Python.framework/Versions/3.1/bin:${PATH}" export PATH.

Does this mean that I have changed the PATH, or does it just giving me instructions how to?

denis

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asked Sep 12, 2010 at 18:56

1

PATH="/Library/Frameworks/Python.framework/Versions/3.1/bin:${PATH}" 
export PATH

This will append the Python directory to the path.

If this is part of ~/.bash_profile, this will append the Python path on each startup.

waiwai933

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answered Sep 12, 2010 at 18:59

leolukleoluk

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try the below lines

cd /usr/local/bin
cp python3.7 python

Then restart terminal

answered Mar 26, 2020 at 15:30

Vineesh TPVineesh TP

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i managed to fixed mine by removing python2, i don't if it's a good practice

answered Apr 10, 2020 at 14:10

code salleycode salley

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0

Educative Answers Team

PATH variable

The PATH variable is a list of directories where each directory​ contains a UNIX executable file [or its alias] for a command/program.

When a command is entered in the terminal, it searches for an executable file with the same name as the entered command in the PATH variable. In the event that the required file is not found, the terminal will respond​ with an error message saying that the command was not found.

One way to overcome this error is to write the complete directory of the executable file [or its alias] instead of just entering the command name. This, however, is not a very user-friendly approach.

An easier way to avoid this error is to add the executable files’ directory to the PATH variable. This often needs to be done after installing Python.

The complete path of the Python [or Python3] UNIX executable can be added [for OS X 10.8 Mountain Lion and up] by:

1. Opening the Terminal and entering the command: sudo nano /etc/paths. Enter your password when prompted to do so.

2. A list of directories that are currently a part of the PATH variable will appear. Enter the path of the Python install directory at the end of this list.

3. Press control + X to quit and then Y to save the changes.

Python can now be used directly from the Terminal without having to write its location every time. Try executing the command python --version to output the default version of Python installed on your system.

Use python3 --version to find out the version of Python3.x.

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