Cannot switch Python with pyenv

The art of pyenv setup: putting things on the right path

Exploring the shell path

Your shell's PATH governs where it seeks executables. As such, pyenv operates by thoughtfully tweaking this PATH. If your Python version remains unchanged post-setup, your shell might be sourcing the wrong profile file. This usually depends on the shell being used- bash, zsh, or others.

Configuring various shells

For multiple shells like bash and zsh, profile files may vary (~/.bash_profile vs ~/.zshrc). For zsh users who installed pyenv via Homebrew, adjust ~/.zprofile to avoid a tennis match with Homebrew's path settings.

Global Python version

Remember to set your Python version globally:

# Using pyenv to perform global domination... of Python versions
pyenv global <desired-version>
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Then, ensure the version switch with:

# Like asking Python: "Who are you now?"
python -V
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Reconfigure terminal

Any profile file changes necessitate a terminal restart or a profile re-sourcing. Use . ~/.bash_profile or equivalent for your shell to calm the raging waters of Python version disorder.

Project-specific Python version

For project-specific Python versions use:

# Assigning Python homework to a specific project
pyenv local <version>
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This proclamation assures each project gets its exclusive Python kingdom.

Keeping up-to-date

To stay aloof of bugs and compatibility duels, keep pyenv and its plugins in shining armor:

cd $(pyenv root)
git pull
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Squashing version mismatches

Debugging and diagnostics

Note any alerts or diagnostic messages pyenv spews upon initialization. These often expose misconfigurations or path disagreements.

Path enlightenment

If path discrepancies between pyenv and system Python loom:

# Sneakily asking pyenv "Where's Python hiding?"
pyenv which python
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Equating the output with your shell's Python address spotlights any mismatches hampering version switch.

Seamless pyenv integration: Best practices

Initialization commands

To ensure pyenv becomes one with your workflow, incorporate eval "$(pyenv init --path)" into your shell profile. This is usually .bash_profile or .zprofile.

Virtual environments

Consider enlisting virtual environments to herd dependencies separately for distinct projects. This guarantees orderly, isolated workspaces sans dependency conflicts.

Directory vigilance

Keep an eagle eye on Python's installation directory. Discordance between pyenv's expectations and Python's actual location can obstruct version switch.