5 Setting up VS Code and your Python development environment

To begin building real applications with local AI models, the chapter shifts from quick terminal-based model interactions to a proper Python development workflow. It emphasizes that while basic Python concepts may be unfamiliar at first, they become manageable when learned gradually, and that a code editor is essential for writing, reading, and running code efficiently. VS Code is introduced as the central workspace because it combines editing, command execution, and helpful coding tools in one place.

The setup process installs and verifies VS Code and Python 3.13 on a Mac using Homebrew, then adds the Microsoft Python extension to turn the editor into a more capable Python environment. The extension provides syntax highlighting, auto-completion, error detection, debugging support, and one-click execution, all of which help catch mistakes early and make code easier to understand. The chapter also shows how to use VS Code’s integrated terminal so commands like Homebrew, Ollama, and Python can be run without leaving the editor.

Once the environment is ready, the chapter walks through creating a dedicated project folder, opening it in VS Code, and writing a first Python script that prints simple messages. Running that script from the integrated terminal confirms the full workflow: create a project, write code, save it, and execute it from the same window. The chapter closes by encouraging practice with keyboard shortcuts, the command palette, and other VS Code features so the development process becomes faster and more comfortable as the project grows.

 How VS Code fits into your development workflow. The editor pane (top) is where you write Python code. The terminal pane (bottom) is where you run commands, including Ollama and your Python scripts. Both live in a single window, so you never need to switch applications.

• VS Code is a free, powerful code editor used by professional developers worldwide. You will not outgrow it.
• Homebrew Cask installs graphical desktop applications with brew install --cask.
• The Python extension adds syntax highlighting, auto-completion, error detection, and debugging support to VS Code.
• The integrated terminal (Ctrl-`) lets you run commands without leaving VS Code.
• Project folders keep your code organized. Create a dedicated folder for each project.
• The command palette (Cmd-Shift-P or Ctrl-Shift-P) is the universal search bar for VS Code features.

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