Add Python to the PATH in Windows 10

Method 1: During the installation

The easiest way is to tick the box in the Python installer.

1. Download the installer from python.org and run it.
2. On the first screen, tick Add python.exe to PATH.

   

3. Click Install Now.

If you already installed Python without it, run the installer again, choose Modify, and tick Add Python to environment variables. Or use method 2.

Method 2: By hand

Step 1: Find the Python folder

Python is usually in a path like this (the version number can differ):

C:\Users\username\AppData\Local\Programs\Python\Python38

Also note the Scripts folder inside it:

C:\Users\username\AppData\Local\Programs\Python\Python38\Scripts

Step 2: Open the system properties

Press the Windows key, type environment variables and open Edit the system environment variables.

Step 3: Open the variables

Click Environment Variables...

Step 4: Edit Path

Under User variables, select Path and click Edit.

Step 5: Add the folders

Click New and paste the Python folder. Click New again and paste the Scripts folder.

Step 6: Save

Click OK in all windows.

Step 7: Test it

Open a new Command Prompt (the old one does not see the change) and run:

python --version

You can also test pip --version.

Quick recap

• Tick Add python.exe to PATH in the installer.
• Or add the Python and Scripts folders to Path by hand.
• Open a new Command Prompt and run python --version.