How to add to python path mac os x?

To add a directory to Python’s PATH on macOS, you can follow these steps depending on whether you want to make the change temporary or permanent:

1. Temporary Addition

A temporary change only lasts for the current session.

Method 1: Modify PYTHONPATH in the Terminal

Run the following command in your terminal before starting Python:

export PYTHONPATH=$PYTHONPATH:/path/to/your/directory

This adds /path/to/your/directory to the PYTHONPATH for the current terminal session.

Verify by starting Python and printing sys.path:

python
>>> import sys
>>> print(sys.path)

2. Permanent Addition

A permanent change ensures the directory is always part of the Python PATH.

Method 1: Edit Shell Configuration File

1. Determine Your Shell: Check which shell you are using:

   echo $SHELL
   

   • If you see zsh, edit .zshrc.
   • If you see bash, edit .bash_profile.
2. Open the Configuration File: Open your shell configuration file in a text editor. For example:

   nano ~/.zshrc
   

   or

   nano ~/.bash_profile
   

3. Add to PYTHONPATH: Add the following line at the end of the file:

   export PYTHONPATH=$PYTHONPATH:/path/to/your/directory
   

4. Apply the Changes: Save the file and reload the configuration:

   source ~/.zshrc
   

   or

   source ~/.bash_profile
   

5. Verify: Start Python and check if the path is added:

   python
   >>> import sys
   >>> print(sys.path)
   

Method 2: Use .pth Files

If you want Python to always include the directory in sys.path, regardless of how Python is started, use a .pth file.

1. Find the site-packages Directory: Run the following command to locate the site-packages directory:

   python -m site
   

   Look for the path like:

   /Library/Frameworks/Python.framework/Versions/3.x/lib/python3.x/site-packages
   

2. Create a .pth File: Create a .pth file in the site-packages directory. For example:

   echo "/path/to/your/directory" > /Library/Frameworks/Python.framework/Versions/3.x/lib/python3.x/site-packages/my_path.pth
   

3. Verify: Start Python and check if the path is added:

   python
   >>> import sys
   >>> print(sys.path)
   

3. Using sys.path.append in a Script

If the directory needs to be added only for a specific script:

import sys
sys.path.append('/path/to/your/directory')

This approach is useful for script-specific modifications.

Conclusion

• Use sys.path.append or export PYTHONPATH for temporary solutions.
• Edit shell configuration files or use .pth files for permanent changes.

Let me know if you encounter any issues!