PyCharm on Windows for Python Beginners: Quick Start
Start coding Python on Windows with PyCharm 2026.1.1. Download, create your first project, run and debug scripts, and install packages in minutes.
Create your first project
1) Create a new project
Open PyCharm → New Project → choose a location like C:\Users\You\PycharmProjects\hello.
2) Choose an interpreter
Select New environment using Virtualenv (recommended). PyCharm will create an isolated Python for your project.
3) Add your first file
Right-click the project → New → Python File → name it main.py. Add: print("Hello, World!")
4) Run your code
Right-click main.py → Run. Output appears in the Run tool window.
5) Debug it
Click in the gutter to set a breakpoint, then Debug. Inspect variables step-by-step.
6) Install a package
Open Settings → Python Interpreter → + and search for requests, then Install. Try: import requests.
Interpreter basics (venv vs system vs Conda)
- Virtualenv (venv) — isolated per‑project Python. Best for beginners.
- System Python — uses a globally installed Python. Simple but less isolated.
- Conda — great for data science. See Data Science setup.
Common beginner questions
Do I need to install Python first?
No. PyCharm can create a virtual environment using an existing Python. If Python is not installed, install Python 3.x first or let PyCharm detect it.
Community or Professional?
Community is free and perfect for starting with Python. Professional adds web, database and scientific tools.
Where is my project stored?
By default under C:\Users\You\PycharmProjects. You can choose any folder when creating a project.
How do I open a terminal?
Press Alt+F12 in PyCharm to open the integrated Terminal.
Keep learning
- Explore top Windows shortcuts to work faster
- Set up Conda or WSL if you do data science
- Compare IDEs: PyCharm vs VS Code on Windows