Do use the official Python installer from python.org (unless you have a very specific reason). Instead, use a package manager.
| Problem | Likely Fix | |---------|-------------| | command not found: python3 | Reinstall Python from python.org | | Still shows old version after update | Run which python3 – you may need to restart Terminal or reorder your PATH | | Homebrew says "already installed" | Run brew upgrade python anyway | | Permission errors | Avoid sudo pip . Use pip install --user or a virtual environment | how to update python mac
Before updating, identify your active version and location by opening the Terminal ( Cmd + Space and type "Terminal"). Run the following commands: Do use the official Python installer from python
In Terminal, run:
This way, updating the global Python won't break your project. Use pip install --user or a virtual environment
( .zshrc or .bash_profile ):
Homebrew makes updating and managing Python much easier.