# Installing Python 3 on macOS with Homebrew This guide provides a concise overview of installing Python 3 on an M2 MacBook Air using Homebrew, and setting up `pip` and `venv` for a robust Python development environment. ## Prerequisites - Access to Terminal - Connectivity to the Internet ## Step 1: Install Homebrew Open Terminal and run: ```sh /bin/bash -c "$(curl -fsSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Homebrew/install/HEAD/install.sh)" ``` ## Step 2: Install Python 3 Install Python 3, which includes `pip3` and `venv`, by running: ```sh brew install python ``` ## Step 3: Verify Python 3 Installation Check the Python version to verify installation: ```sh python3 --version ``` ## Step 4: Verify pip Installation Ensure `pip3` is installed: ```sh pip3 --version ``` ## Step 5: Setup Virtual Environments with venv Navigate to your project directory: ```sh cd path/to/your/project ``` Create a virtual environment: ```sh python3 -m venv venv ``` Activate the virtual environment: ```sh source venv/bin/activate ``` ## Step 6: Deactivate Virtual Environment To exit the virtual environment: ```sh deactivate ``` This guide ensures you have a functional Python environment on macOS, ideal for development activities.