Using both Python 2.x and Python 3.x in IPython Notebook

How to Use Python 2.x and Python 3.x in IPython Notebook

😃 Welcome to our tech blog! Today, we're tackling a common question among IPython Notebook users: how to switch between Python 2.x and Python 3.x versions within IPython Notebook itself. We understand your frustration and we're here to help!

The Background Story

Let's set the stage. You were previously using Anaconda, but you found that changing a global environment variable to switch Python versions before starting IPython Notebook was not ideal. So, you uninstalled Anaconda and set up your own Python installation using MacPorts and PiP. However, you still find yourself having to use the following command to switch between Python 2.x and 3.x variants:

port select --set python <python version>

You're looking for a more convenient solution that allows you to select the desired Python version after starting an IPython Notebook, specifically with your current MacPorts build. We hear you – and we've got some easy solutions for you!

Solution 1: Custom IPython Kernel for Python 2.x and Python 3.x

The first solution involves creating custom IPython kernels for both Python 2.x and Python 3.x. This way, you can easily switch between them within IPython Notebook. Here's how to do it:

1. Install the IPython kernel using Pip for Python 2.x and Python 3.x if you haven't already. Open your terminal and run the following commands:

pip2 install ipykernel
pip3 install ipykernel

1. Create a kernel for Python 2.x by running this command:

python2 -m ipykernel install --user --name python2_kernel

1. Similarly, create a kernel for Python 3.x by running this command:

python3 -m ipykernel install --user --name python3_kernel

1. Launch IPython Notebook using the desired kernel. Open your terminal and run this command:

jupyter notebook

1. In the IPython Notebook interface, click "New" and you'll see both Python 2.x and Python 3.x kernels listed. Choose the appropriate version, and you're good to go!

Solution 2: Using ipymagic

Our second solution involves using the ipymagic extension, which allows you to specify the Python version inline within IPython Notebook cells. Here's how to do it:

1. Install ipymagic using Pip. Open your terminal and run the following command:

pip install ipymagic

1. Import ipymagic in your IPython Notebook by running this command in a code cell:

%load_ext ipymagic

1. To switch to Python 2.x, run this command in a code cell:

%python2

1. To switch to Python 3.x, run this command in a code cell:

%python3

By executing these commands, all subsequent code cells will use the specified Python version.

Your Turn: Join the Conversation! 🗣️

We hope these solutions help you seamlessly switch between Python 2.x and Python 3.x in IPython Notebook! Now it's time for you to take action. Try out the two solutions we've provided and let us know which one worked best for you. You can address any concerns, share your success stories, or ask further questions in the comments section below.

Let's make the Python journey even more enjoyable together! 😄