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Managing python packages with pip and poetry

When you program with python, you need to manage your packages. This guide will help you understand how to manage these efficiently. It also includes the difference between pip and poetry and how to use them.

Guide to Working with Pip and Poetry

Overview

Pip and Poetry are both tools used for managing Python packages and virtual environments. Pip is the standard package manager for Python, while Poetry is a modern alternative that simplifies dependency management and project packaging.

When to Use What?

  • Use Pip if you want a simple way to install packages and manage dependencies manually.
  • Use Poetry if you want an all-in-one solution for dependency management, virtual environments, and project packaging.

Working with Pip

1. Installing Pip

Most Python installations come with Pip pre-installed. To check if you have Pip:

pip --version

If not installed, install it with:

python -m ensurepip --default-pip

2. Setting Up a Virtual Environment

Creating a virtual environment ensures that dependencies remain isolated from system-wide Python packages.

Create a Virtual Environment

python -m venv myenv

Activate the Virtual Environment

  • Windows: 
    myenv\Scripts\activate
  • Mac/Linux: 
    source myenv/bin/activate

3. Loading the Virtual Environment in VS Code

  1. Open VS Code.
  2. Press Ctrl + Shift + P and type Python: Select Interpreter.
  3. Choose the Python interpreter from your virtual environment.

4. Adding and Removing Packages

Install a Package

pip install package_name

Uninstall a Package

pip uninstall package_name

Save Installed Packages to a File

pip freeze > requirements.txt

Install Packages from a Requirements File

pip install -r requirements.txt

Working with Poetry

1. Installing Poetry

Poetry can be installed using:

curl -sSL https://install.python-poetry.org | python3 -

Verify installation:

poetry --version

2. Setting Up a Virtual Environment

Create a New Project

poetry new myproject
cd myproject

Initialize Poetry in an Existing Project

poetry init

Activate the Virtual Environment

poetry shell

3. Loading the Virtual Environment in VS Code

  1. Open VS Code.
  2. Press Ctrl + Shift + P and type Python: Select Interpreter.
  3. Select the Poetry environment interpreter.

4. Adding and Removing Packages

Install a Package

poetry add package_name

Remove a Package

poetry remove package_name

Install Dependencies from pyproject.toml

poetry install

Summary

  • Pip is simpler and best for quick setups or small projects.
  • Poetry is more structured and useful for managing dependencies in larger projects.
  • Both tools help create virtual environments and manage dependencies efficiently.

Choose based on your project needs!