Before you start

Python together with its Modules Scipy, Numpy and Matplotlib are used in a couple of courses in Numerical Analysis and Scientific Computing in Lund. Here we advice how to install and run Python on your home computer. We work with Python versions 3.*, e.g. Python 3.12. Before you install check if your system uses a 64 bit operative system or a 32 bit system. Most modern computers work with a 64 bit system. Nowadays, 64 bit systems are most commonly used.

Installation

The most convenient way is to install Python from the miniforge distribution which includes all modules you might need for scientific computing and the workbench (editor) Spyder. Download the installer here, scroll down on that page and follow the platform specific installation instructions on that page. The distribution is free, as long as you make sure to only use packages from the conda-forge channel.

Configuration of Spyder

Open Spyder and go to Tools --> Preferences --> Global Working Directory
Give the details about the directory you use to work in.
Open Spyder and go to Tools --> Preferences --> Editor --> Advanced Settings
Select Edit templates for new Modules
The template file will be opened. Modify it so that it looks like
```
# -*- coding: utf-8 -*-
"""
Created on %(date)s
@author: %(username)s
"""
from  numpy import *
from  matplotlib.pyplot import *
```
Save and quit it.
Open Spyder and go to Tools --> Preferences --> IPython console --> Startup
an change the Run code section as in the following picture: